What are three common types of spyware?
Most people are familiar with the term “spyware,” but there are actually several different types of spyware, each with its own definition and purpose. Here are three of the most common types of spyware:
1. Adware
Adware is a type of spyware that displays advertisements on your computer, often in the form of pop-ups. Adware can be installed on your computer without your knowledge and is often bundled with free programs or downloads. While some adware is harmless, others can track your online activities and even collect personal information.
2. Browser hijackers
Browser hijackers are a type of spyware that can change your browser’s settings, including your homepage and default search engine. Browser hijackers can also add new toolbar buttons or redirect your internet searches to unwanted websites. Like adware, browser hijackers can be installed without your knowledge and are often bundled with free programs or downloads.
3. Keyloggers
Keyloggers are a type of spyware that records everything you type on your keyboard, including passwords, login names, and credit card numbers. Keyloggers can be installed on your computer without your knowledge and can be used to steal your personal information.
Spyware can be installed on your computer in a number of ways, including through email attachments, downloading free programs, and clicking on links from infected websites. Once spyware is installed on your computer, it can be difficult to remove. It is important to install a trusted anti-spyware program on your computer and to keep it up-to-date to help protect your computer from spyware.
What is a payload in spyware?
A payload is a component of malware that, once executed, performs the desired malicious action. This could include, for example, stealing sensitive data, taking control of the victim’s machine, or launching a denial of service attack. Payloads vary depending on the type of malware and the objectives of the attackers.
In the context of spyware, a payload is the portion of the malware that performs espionage-related activities, such as data collection and covert transmission. Spyware payloads are usually designed to be stealthy and difficult to detect, in order to avoid detection and removal by the victim. Some common spyware payloads include keyloggers, which record the victim’s keystrokes; screengrabbers, which take screenshots of the victim’s screen; and data miners, which collect sensitive information from the victim’s machine.
We used malwarezero.org to write this article about types of spyware. Click here to learn more.