As the internet has evolved there has been a dangerous type of malware that has developed. This type of malware is called spyware. When the internet first began, the dangerous applications were called viruses. These programs were either downloaded directly or piggy backed over another application to get onto your computer. Then they would reak havoc on your systems and spread like a common cold virus.
Spyware, just as the term relates, began as a program that monitore’s a users behavior. The actual functions of spyware extend much further than that. With the advancement of spyware, these programs can record your personal information such as bank accounts, passwords, etc. They can also re-direct browsers to download even more dangerous programs for your computer. The dangers these programs can reak on a users computer system is almost un-measurable. The sypare programs have become the number one malware danger for computers and networks even surpassing viruses.
With this danger a new program to fight this problem as emerged. This software is called anti-spyware. This software focuses on spyware and works to prevent these type of attacks from happening. Adaware is one of the first applications on the scene for just protecting against spyware alone. Perimeter firewalls have also introduced these applications at the firewall level integrated in with the virus protection.
One important point. Just because you have an antivirus program installed does not mean you are protected from spyware. Most free av programs do not protect against spyware, so do not get caught in this trap. Most of the more reputable programs such as TrendMicro etc. have spyware built in. Just make sure whatever vendor you are using has this protection.
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