Quick Overview of Spyware

What is Spyware? Spyware is a common form of malicious software that is installed on computers or networks. When installed, spyware will collect small tidbits of information concerning the user’s personal preferences. Spyware accomplishes this intrusive objective without obtaining the informed consent of the user. Spyware is typically difficult to detect because the form of malware is clandestinely installed on the individual’s computer. Although the basic function of Spyware is to monitor the preferences and characteristics of the user, this form of malware can initiate more harmful and intrusive functions. In general, a spyware program will collect various types of personal information, such as the “surfing” habits of the individual accessing the internet and what the individual does on the particular sites visited. That being said, spyware can also interfere with the user’s control of the computer. When installed, a spyware program can implement additional software to effectively inhibit or redirect the individual when accessing the Internet. When delivering this disruptive function, a spyware program will alter the individual’s computer settings, which will ultimately result in damaged performance or limited access. Differences between Spyware and Worms Spyware is held separately from other forms of malicious software, such as worms, because spyware does not self-replicate. Spyware only exploits infected computers for a sense of commercial gain. It does not replicate itself to infect multiple networks or computer systems. As a result of this basic function, the typical tactics of spyware include the mass delivery of unsolicited pop-up advertisements, the obtainment and subsequent use of personal information (including all financial information), the monitoring of web activity for marketing purposes, and routing requests to advertising mediums. A spyware program will not directly spread throughout multiple computers as a worm or virus would. In most instances, an infected system will not attempt to transmit the spyware to other hosts. Due to its inability to self-replicate, a spyware program will enter a system through deception or by exploiting a particular program’s vulnerability. The majority of spyware programs are installed without the user’s knowledge. A spyware device will “piggyback” on a piece of legitimate software or by tricking the user to download the bug. Effects of Spyware When a computer is infected with spyware, the user will notice a degradation of system performance as well as the presence of unwanted solicitations. In addition to halting the computer’s performance, a spyware infection can create unwanted computer activity, disk usage and network traffic. Legal Issues attached to Spyware Spyware programs track an individual’s activity online. As a result of this characteristic, these programs can compromise the user’s personal, as well as financial, information. All unauthorized access to a computer or network is deemed illegal under computer crime laws in the United States. That being said, very few developers of spyware programs have been prosecuted. Many spyware developers actually operate as legitimate businesses. The developers of spyware and those organizations which produce the software generally argue that the programs do in fact give consent to installations. The majority of spyware programs come bundled with legitimate applications. The presence of spyware is typically described in the product’s end-user license agreement. As a result, the programmers or developers of these programs claim that in most instances spyware is installed to track a consumer’s shopping habits or personal interests.