Spyware is
software that is installed on a computing device without the end user's
knowledge. Any software can be classified as spyware if it is downloaded
without the user's authorization.
Spyware is typically
delivered through infected websites, free mobile or desktop apps and email
attachments. Once installed, spyware runs silently in the background,
collecting the information it was designed to gather.
Types of spyware
include the following:
Spyware can be
difficult to detect; often, the first indication that a user has been infected
with spyware is a noticeable reduction in network connection speeds, battery
life or bank account balance.
To prevent spyware
from being installed, users should create strong passwords, only download
software from trusted sources, read all clickwrap agreements when installing
software and regularly update all operating systems, web browsers and software
apps -- especially anti-virus applications.
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