What is ThiefWare?

Some of the software mentioned places links on victimized sites for visitors to click on, leading them away to other competitor sites. Many site owners would say the software is stealing visitors, which makes ThiefWare an appropriate name for such services and software.

How did I get it?

Thiefware is a new form of spyware that is downloaded with another software application and during the setup process of that software application you are requested to install the thiefware thinking it is part of the original software you were installing. Thiefware also can be an added application to peer-to-peer downloads, toolbars, and some forms of freeware. You may eventually uninstall the main program, but the thiefware could remain on your system until you find a way to uninstall it.


What is the harm if I'm infected?
Thiefware is a new form of spyware that is downloaded with another software application and during the setup process of that software application you are requested to install the thiefware thinking it is part of the original software you were installing. Thiefware causes visitors to certain sites to be redirected to a search engine or other web page of the author's choosing. This practice is not illegal although it is highly unethical. Thiefware also can be an added application to peer-to-peer downloads, toolbars, and some forms of freeware. You may eventually uninstall the main program, but the thiefware could remain on your system until you find a way to uninstall it.


What can I do?

Links are provided for what we think are the some of the best ThiefWare removal products available today. They typically report the level of damage detected along with the location found in your system. Download and removal instructions vary by product, but rating criteria include ease-of-use, reported effectiveness and continuous protection features.Please visit our Anti-spyware reviews page to discover reputable products that will completely protect you against this threat.