What is Spyware?

What is Spyware?

What is Spyware? Spyware is generally considered to be any malicious software which collects information on users that might be considered sensitive. For example, passwords, phone numbers, credit card info, and social security numbers can all be targets of spyware.

Here is a little history lesson. The first recorded use of the term “spyware” occurred on October 16th, 1995in an article was poking fun about Microsoft’s business model. The first real real example of spyware deployment in the modern sense took place in the year 2000 with an educational software meant for children named “Reader Rabbit”. While children were using this software, it sent data back to Mattel (the company which created Reader Rabbit).

Since then, Spyware has been utilized by malicious cyber actors, governments, and online advertisement. Most people infected with spyware are unaware that it is running on their systems. The main categories of spyware include: Adware, Tracking cookies, Trojans, Keyloggers, Stalkerware, Stealware, and system monitors.

So how does one remedy a Spyware infection? The easiest solution for blocking spyware is using a firewall. A firewall will sift through your internet traffic and potentially block sites that may contain spyware. Another “best practice” is to be careful of what you click on. Malicious links are a key vector for the spread of spyware. Never click on links that are embedded in emails unless sent by trusted user. Another potential remedy to spyware is the use of Anti-Virus software like F-secure. Properly utilizing end-point protection will secure your systems by discovering and neutralizing any unwanted spyware.

After reading this post, I hope we have enlightened you as to what spyware is and how dangerous it can be for you personally as well as for your organization. Personal data and potentially compromising information is the currency of hackers and we must do our best to secure this data