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Spyware
Definition List by Gary Gresham
The adware and spyware definitions list is very long. But the
definitions listed below are the most common ones. This is a
glossary of spyware facts and terms so you'll know what these
malicious programs are and what they can do to your computer.
Adware
Adware components are generally installed along with a shareware
or freeware programs you download. The adware developer creates
pop up windows that generate advertisement revenue for them. Most
adware components are actually installed with consent from the
user. This happens because most people never read the end-user
license agreement that comes with software.
Spyware
Spyware is most often installed bundled with freeware or
shareware, much like adware. Spyware programs gather and transmit
sensitive and personal information about your online behavior to
an unknown party. The data is collected without you even knowing
it happened. By the time you discover it, the damage is done and
the hacker is long gone.
Browser Hijackers
Browser hijackers are innocently installed as helpful browser
toolbars. They can alter your browser settings and can change your
default home page to point to a site that generates revenue for
the hijacker.
Trojan Horse Programs
Trojan horse programs sneak into your system and run without you
realizing it similar to spyware. Programmers use these programs
for any number of malicious uses and not one of them you would
approve of. The good thing is Trojan horse programs do not
duplicate themselves.
Tracking cookies
Tracking cookies are files with small amounts of data like
passwords and settings. Tracking cookies can provide a benefit to
you especially if you revisit the same web sites. But in the wrong
hands, cookies are used to track your Internet behavior without
your knowledge or consent and provides marketers with private
information about you.
Keyloggers
Keyloggers are programs that run in the background silently
recording all your keystrokes. Once the keystrokes are logged, the
hacker uses a remote keyloggers program to retrieve the data
later. The hacker can get your passwords, credit card numbers and
any personal information on your computer.
Malware
The definition of malware is any malicious software or program
that will harm your computer. Computer viruses, worms and Trojans
are all considered malware, but several other types of programs
may also be included under the term.
Password Cracker
A password cracker is simply a program used to decrypt a password
or password file. Security administrators use password crackers
for legitimate use by using them to improve system security. But
the dangers when a hacker gets a program like this is
unimaginable.
There are many other spyware definitions including scumware,
annoyanceware, parasites and the list continues to grow daily.
Copyright © 2005 Spyware Information.com All Rights Reserved.
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