What Is Spyware, Malware & Spamming?

To avoid malicious software, don't download from sites you aren't familiar with.

Spyware, malware and spamming are three of the biggest threats that computer users must be aware of before going online. At the least, they can be minor annoyances that hinder a person's experience online; at worst, they can lead to identity theft and other serious problems.

Spyware

Spyware is defined as any program that collects personal information about the user without their knowledge. Many times spyware programs will track a user's Internet browsing, log their keystrokes or even sort through their files looking for personal information. Spyware on a computer can lead to identity theft and hinder a computer's performance.

Malware

Malware and spyware often overlap. Most of the time spyware is considered to be malware. But malware can also include viruses, trojans, worms, rootkits and any other kind of program that installs itself on a user's computer without her consent. While adware usually is on a computer to either gather personal information or present advertisements, malware is often on a computer just to cause havoc or peform other malicious behavior.

Spamming

Spamming is the act of sending out unsolicited mass emails. Spam can be a relatively harmless annoyance sometimes, but many times spam emails are selling products and services that are deceitful or even illegal. Spam in and of itself is not dangerous, but many times what the spam is trying to sell or push on its readers can be.

Prevention

The best way to avoid spyware and malware is to do research before downloading anything. Many times malicious programs and viruses will piggyback themselves on seemingly useful programs like cursors, media players and other software. Only download from trusted sites and have spyware- and malware-blocking programs on your computer.

Removal

If spyware, malware, viruses or other programs ever do make their way onto your computer, there are programs available that can help you remove them. Anti-virus software usually does a good job of rooting out and removing malicious software, and there are also special programs that search and destroy spyware.

References

• FTC: Spam
• Microsoft Security: Malicious Software Removal Tool
• Symantec: Malware
• Microsoft Security: What Is Spyware?

Resources

• Malware City