What is a sign that spyware might be present on a computer?

Increased advertisement pop-ups are a strong indication that spyware may be present on a computer. Spyware often operates by tracking user behavior and collecting data, which can lead to the generation of targeted advertisements. When this kind of software is installed, users might start noticing a surge in unwanted ads or pop-ups, which are often a byproduct of the data harvested and shared by the spyware. This behavior can significantly alter the browsing experience, compared to the normal number of ads encountered, signaling that there may be a malicious presence affecting the system.

On the other hand, decreased internet speed could be influenced by various factors and is not a definitive sign of spyware. Improved system performance would generally be considered an unlikely outcome of spyware, as such software typically consumes resources, leading to a decrease in performance rather than an improvement. Similarly, faster-than-usual downloads are not a reliable indicator of spyware. Many factors can affect download speeds, and increased speed alone is not symptomatic of malicious software activity.