Spyware

Spyware is an insidious security threat that manifests itself in both the home and office environments. It can be something low-level, such as a tracking cookie that keeps tabs on where a user surfs or something very dangerous, such as a key logger that keeps a record of every keystroke a user makes, potentially revealing passwords and other sensitive information. Dealing with this threat requires some study and, difficult though it may be, practicing some self-denial when confronted with "free" offers on the web. These free programs and utilities are oftentimes vectors for spyware, as are pirated movie and music files.

Spyware has an essential function of tracking at least one type of user information and of reporting that information back to a specific server. Not all of this software crosses legal boundaries though most of it is justifiably resented by users. The legal types tend to serve "targeted" advertising to infected computers, based upon the browsing history of the user. If you're suddenly deluged with credit card offers when you're checking your credit report, it's a good time to consider spyware as the culprit. The real threat is manifest in to whom this information is reported. If the receiving server happens to belong to a malicious agency, the trouble can quickly spiral out of control.

More malicious forms of spyware report very sensitive information back to their parent servers. This may include credit card numbers used to make online purchases, passwords to email and other accounts and browsing history that may be confidential. This information can be used by the spyware maker or sold to others searching for information to use in identity theft. The damage done through this practice is fast and long-lasting. It can easily destroy credit reports, result in huge bills and hours spent on the phone dealing with various agencies to repair the damage from the assault.

The presence of spyware requires that individuals provide their computer with anti-virus software and that they make intelligent decisions while working online. Shady sites should be avoided and no software should be downloaded from unfamiliar sources. Pop-up ads should always be closed by clicking the "X" on the window, never by clicking "No." If signs of spyware infection should manifest, the computer should immediately be disconnected from the network to prevent any information from leaking out and verifiably cleaned of that infection before being hooked back up to the Internet.