Business Security Information

Spyware is a specific form of malware which tracks a person or gathers information about them without their knowledge.  This means that spyware is usually hidden from the user. Software that is installed with the user’s knowledge is not considered spyware.

Spyware can include software that secretly monitors a user’s behavior, but it can also include much more such as collecting personal and account information and e-mail addresses, changing computer settings, installing additional software, and other similar types of activities.  Spyware can be an issue also from the stand point of slowing down your computer and your internet connection speed.

Spyware software is often a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs and can be installed by clicking a deceptive pop-up window or by simply visiting a website in what is called a drive-by download.  Not every website, pop-up window, freeware or shareware program has spyware but some do.  Be careful what websites you visit, what programs you download, and what links you click on in pop-up windows.

Related posts:

1. Trojan Horse
2. Malware
3. Rootkits