Spyware is a type of malicious software (or malware) that is usually installed on a device without the user’s permission, and these programs are mainly used to attack the device and steal sensitive information from the user.
The information is then sent back to the attacker who deployed the spyware. Spyware can also attach itself to a user’s operating system and can run in the background as a “memory resident program”.
There are times when such a program can disguise itself as a seemingly innocent file and an important part of the operating system.
What Devices Can Spyware Attack?
Spyware can access programs that may appear to be legitimate.
In such cases, the inclusion of spyware may be indicated in the fine print of the downloaded software.
Apart from this, most of the spyware is installed on the user’s device through unreliable download sources and even through phishing attack.
Devices that spyware can be installed on include a PC, laptop, tablet, iPhone, or Android smartphone.
Various spyware programs are designed to track user activities.
Some spyware deployed by advertisers monitor users’ web browsing behavior while others can track contacts and even geolocations.
Meanwhile, the more dangerous ones focus on stealing users’ network credentials and passwords.
There are 7 main types of spyware that are used for different purposes.
Banking Trojans can steal users’ money by sending payments to the attacker’s account, while data theft can collect a wide variety of data, from credit card numbers to email addresses.
Meanwhile, the mobile spyware can access the contact list of photos taken by the user, and the audio and video recording spyware can record the user’s conversation to send to the attacker.
Some advertisers also use spyware tracking cookies to access users’ web browsing data.
How to identify spyware on your device
Spyware is very difficult to detect, yet users can recognize its signs.
For example, if the system or device becomes slower, users should check whether it has been hacked.
Other signs include advertising messages, unexpected pop-ups, new software or apps installing automatically, or your battery draining faster than usual.
Devices infected with spyware also have problems accessing secure websites and may experience significant increases in data usage.
How to protect devices from spyware
These basic tips will reduce the chances of users installing spyware on their computers or smartphones:
Update your software, software and operating systems on time
Use strong passwords on your computer
Set screen lock on your mobile devices
Do not allow administrator privileges on your system or devices
Do not attempt to root or jailbreak your Android smartphone or iPhone
Avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
Read the permissions on your device carefully before granting them
Avoid clicking on suspicious emails and links
