Malware Explained: Spyware, Adware, and Trojan Horses
Understanding Malware
Malware (short for “malicious software”) is considered an annoying or harmful type of software intended to secretly access a device without the user’s knowledge. Common types of malware include:
- Spyware
- Adware
- Phishing
- Viruses
- Trojan horses
- Worms
- Rootkits
- Ransomware
- Browser hijackers
Spyware: Silent Data Theft
What is Spyware?
Spyware is a type of malware that’s hard to detect. It collects information about your surfing habits, browsing history, or personal information (such as credit card numbers), and often uses the Internet to pass this information along to third parties without you knowing. Keyloggers are a type of spyware that monitors your keystrokes.
Where Spyware Comes From
Spyware is often bundled with other software or downloads on file-sharing sites (e.g., sites where you download free music or movies), or is installed when you open an email attachment. Because of the secretive nature of spyware, most people don’t even know when spyware is on their computer.
How to Recognize Spyware
- New and/or unidentifiable icons may appear in the taskbar at the bottom of your screen.
- Searches may result in you being redirected to a different search engine.
- Random error messages appear when you perform operations that previously worked fine.
How to Remove Spyware
Antivirus software can find and remove any spyware on your computer, as these usually include anti-spyware protection. You can also check Programs and Features for items that don’t belong on your computer.
How to Prevent Spyware
- Ensure that your browser, operating system, and software have the latest updates and security patches.
- Set your browser security and privacy levels higher.
- Use extreme caution if you frequent file-sharing sites.
- Don’t click on pop-up ads.
Adware: Annoying Ads and Potential Risks
What is Adware?
Adware is a type of free software supported by advertisements that show up in pop-up windows or on a toolbar on your computer or browser. Most adware is annoying but safe. However, some is used to gather your personal information, track the websites you visit, or even record your keystrokes.
Where Adware Comes From
Just like spyware, adware is most often built into free software but can also be installed on your browser or operating system through a security hole.
How to Recognize Adware
- You start seeing ads popping up in applications where you hadn’t seen them before.
- Pop-ups can also show up on your computer’s desktop even when you’re not browsing the Internet.
- Your browser’s homepage may have been changed.
How to Remove Adware
Before removing adware from your device, be sure to back up any important files that you want to keep safe. Then use antivirus or adware removal software to scan for and remove any adware that might be hiding on your device.
How to Prevent Adware
Ensure that your browser, operating system, and software have the latest updates and security patches.
Trojan Horses: Deceptive Threats
What is a Trojan Horse?
A Trojan Horse is a type of virus that pretends to be something useful, helpful, or fun while actually causing harm or stealing data.
Where Trojans Come From
Trojans are often spread via an infected email attachment or a download that hides in free games, applications, movies, or greeting cards.
How to Recognize a Trojan
Your computer will often slow down because of the burden on the processor.