What are the Different Types of Spyware?
Spyware is a type of malware that is installed on a computer without the user’s knowledge. It gathers information about the user without their consent, and sends this information to a third party. Spyware can be used to track the user’s web browsing habits, steal personal information, or show unwanted advertising.
There are four main types of spyware: adware, system monitors, trojans, and keyloggers.
Adware is software that displays unwanted advertising on the user’s computer. It can be installed as part of another program, or it can be downloaded from the internet. Adware is usually not harmful, but it can be annoying.
System monitors are programs that track the user’s activity on the computer. They can be used to monitor the user’s productivity, or to see what websites they are visiting. System monitors can be installed without the user’s knowledge, but they are usually not considered to be spyware.
Trojans are programs that appear to be benign, but are actually malware. They can be used to install spyware, or to allow a third party to gain access to the user’s computer. Trojans are often disguised as legitimate programs, so it is important to be careful when downloading software from the internet.
Keyloggers are programs that record the keys that are pressed on the keyboard. They can be used to stealing passwords, or to track the user’s activity. Keyloggers can be installed without the user’s knowledge, but they are usually not considered to be spyware.
Spyware can be difficult to remove, and it can cause the computer to run slowly. It is important to be careful when installing programs, and to only download software from trusted sources. Spyware can be prevented by using anti-spyware software, and by keeping the computer’s operating system up-to-date..Click for source
What is a Rootkit?
A rootkit is a software program that gives a user administrative control over a computer or system. It typically consists of a collection of tools that can be used to gain access to protected areas of the operating system, install malicious software, and hide information from system administrators.
Rootkits can be used for legitimate purposes, such as allowing a system administrator to remotely manage a system, or for malicious purposes, such as allowing an attacker to gain access to a system or hide information from its owners.
While rootkits are sometimes used by attackers to hide their tracks, they can also be used by legitimate software, such as antivirus programs, to detect and remove malware.
Rootkits have been around for almost as long as computers have been used for malicious purposes. One of the earliest rootkits was developed by a German hacker in the early 1980s and was used to hide files from detection by antivirus software.
In the late 1990s, rootkits began to be used more frequently by attackers, as they became more sophisticated and easier to use.
In 2005, a rootkit called “SubVirt” was discovered that could be used to create a virtual machine within a computer, allowing an attacker to hide their activities from the operating system.
In 2007, a rootkit called ” rootkit.boot” was discovered that could be used to infect the Master Boot Record, making it difficult to detect and remove.
In 2010, a rootkit called “Stuxnet” was discovered that was used to attack industrial control systems, causing physical damage to equipment.
Rootkits are typically installed without the knowledge or consent of the user and can be difficult to detect and remove.
If you think your computer may be infected with a rootkit, it is important to run a trusted antivirus program to remove the malware.
We used malwarezero.org to write this article about types of spyware. Click here for more.