List of Spyware
Spyware is a type of software that installs itself onto a computer without the permission or knowledge of the user. The purpose of spyware is to covertly gather information on people's Internet browsing habits to target them with specific sales and marketing material or to steal personal information. Spyware can slow down your computer, change settings, such as home page designation, or disrupt the functionality of other programs. A firewall and antivirus software help prevent unauthorized downloads of spyware.
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Keyboard Logger
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A keyboard logger is a program that records all the keyboard strokes you make on your computer. With this information, attackers can steal passwords, PIN numbers, Social Security Numbers and other private information you input on your keyboard. The main purpose of keyboard loggers is theft of personal information, making them a dangerous spyware infection.
System Monitors
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A system monitor gathers and records the activity and navigation patterns on your computer. It records what websites you visit and captures passwords, credit card numbers, personal contact information and bank account numbers. Phishing attacks and instant messaging viruses are often used to install system monitor spyware.
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Phishing
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Phishing is an email spyware attack where a fake business email downloads a spyware program when a link is opened. Phishing attacks appear to be legitimate emails from banks or business websites stating that you need to click on a link to update your information. When you open the link, spyware is installed on your computer. Because of phishing attacks, it is necessary to have antispam programs for your email and to be careful about opening emails that require you to click on links to update personal information.
Modem Hijack
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Modem hijack spyware, also known as dialers, connect to your phone line and dial expensive connections when you are not using your computer. This software allows a call to be routed through your phone line and is frequently used for international, adult chat line services. You do not know you have dialer software until you receive the unexpected charges on your phone bill.
Browser Hijack
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Browser hijack spyware takes control of your browser, changing your home page and redirecting searches to marketing and sales websites. Until you remove the spyware, you will have a difficult time resetting your browser preferences.
Adware
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Adware is the most common type of spyware. This software continuously loads unwanted pop-up ads while you are online and can also record what websites you visit to tailor the ads directly to you.
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