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Types of spyware

There are many types of spyware, but they can generally be divided into four categories: system monitors, keyloggers, Trojans, and adware.

System monitors are perhaps the most benign type of spyware. They simply record information about the user’s activity on the computer, such as which programs were run and when, and can be used to monitor employee productivity or kids’ computer usage. Some system monitors can be configured to record keystrokes, screenshots, or even video of the user’s activity, but this information is typically only accessible to the person who installed the spyware.

Keyloggers are a type of spyware that record everything the user types on the keyboard, including passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information. Keyloggers can be installed remotely by someone with access to the victim’s computer, or they can be installed surreptitiously by infecting the victim’s computer with a virus orTrojan.

Trojans are malicious programs that masquerade as legitimate software in order to trick the user into installing them. Once installed, Trojans can give the attacker complete control over the victim’s computer, including the ability to install additional spyware.

Adware is a type of spyware that automatically displays advertisements on the victim’s computer. Adware is often bundled with free programs that the user downloads from the Internet, and it can be difficult to remove without also uninstalling the program it came with. Adware can be annoying, but it is generally not considered malicious since it does not typically steal sensitive information or compromise the security of the victim’s computer.

Spyware is a serious problem, and it is important to be aware of the ways it can get on your computer. Be sure to install a reputable anti-spyware program and keep it up-to-date to protect yourself from these malicious programs..Extra resources

How to identify spyware
and malware

It is important to know how to identify spyware and malware because they can both cause serious problems for your computer. Spyware is software that is installed on your computer without your knowledge and tracks your internet usage. Malware is software that is designed to damage or disable your computer. Both spyware and malware can be installed on your computer by visiting malicious websites, opening email attachments, or downloading infected files.

The best way to protect your computer from spyware and malware is to install an antivirus program and keep it up-to-date. Antivirus programs scan your computer for known viruses and remove them. They also provide real-time protection, which means they can block malicious files before they are opened.

There are also a few things you can do to avoid spyware and malware. Only download files from websites that you trust. Be careful when opening email attachments, even if they appear to come from a trusted source. And, be cautious about clicking on links in emails, instant messages, and social networking posts.

If you think your computer is infected with spyware or malware, run a full scan with your antivirus program. If you don’t have an antivirus program, you can use a free online scanner.

We used malwarezero.org to write this article about spyware example. Full Article.