Adware is software that displays advertisements. This does not mean that any software that provides advertisements or tracks your on-line activities is adware. Adware has been criticized for occasionally including code that tracks a user's personal information and passes it on to third parties, without the user's authorization or knowledge. This practice has been dubbed spyware and has prompted an outcry from computer security and privacy advocates. Adware is software that displays advertising banners, re-directs you to websites, and otherwise conducts advertising on your computer (not to be confused with popup ads, which come from the websites that you visit). Malware is malicious software that is intended to do harm to your computer or software.
Spyware is a way for shareware authors to make money from a product, rather than by selling it to users. While this may be a great concept in theory, the downside is that the advertising companies also install additional tracking software on your system, which is continuously "calling home", using your Internet connection and reports statistical data to someone else. Spyware is any technology or software residing on your PC that covertly gathers information. In most cases, spyware is installed without the user's awareness or informed consent. Spyware is usually included as a hidden component in mislabeled "freeware" and shareware programs downloaded from the Internet. Because the spyware companies are aware that users will recognize the malicious nature of the spyware program, they must employ stealthy techniques to conceal the presence of the spyware from the consumer.
Spyware is a bit different from viruses and Trojans in that it does not spread from computer to computer or from file to file. Rather, it is often installed by the user in conjunction with freeware/shareware. It is a particular concern because of its potential use in identity theft and fraud. It is just like weeds in your garden or flower bed. They just appear when you least expect it.
Spyware is a technology problem that requires a technology solution. On the surface, the task of combating spyware seems to be heading in the same direction viruses and SPAM have taken us. It is a technological problem and users need a strong defense to combat it. It is a byproduct of peer-to-peer file-sharing. People are generally unaware of how easily spyware gets into their computers.
Software companies issue free "patches" to plug those holes as they're discovered. If there is an auto-update feature for your operating system and browser, make sure you have activated that feature to automatically check for and install those updates. Software is considered malware based on the perceived intent of the creator rather than any particular features. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, trojan horses, most rootkits, spyware, dishonest adware, and other malicious and unwanted software. Software intercepting e-mails and instant messages can collect and transmit confidential information to Internet, and are also dangerous and valid security concerns. Some software may also change parameters of installed security software without your consent.
Spyware is any kind of program installed in your computer without your consent to gather information about you or your organization. A typical piece of spyware will watch over your shoulder while you browse the Web, record your mouse clicks and broadcast all that information back to another computer (ostensibly for marketing purposes).
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