No one likes feeling that someone is watching them when shopping, working or browsing the internet. Having someone look over your shoulder is not only uncomfortable. It can also be malicious, especially when it comes to your activities online. Looking at your private information and behavior, whether on-line or on your local device can be fruitful for criminals. That information is incredibly valuable. And this is what scammers and crooks attempt to achieve using “spyware”, often without our knowledge or consent. But what is spyware?
How does spyware work?
Spyware can gather sensitive data about you covertly. It records keystrokes, passwords and credit card data without your knowledge or consent.
That means malicious actors don’t even need to physically steal your wallet in order to gain access to your financial and personal data. All they need to do is deceive you into installing spyware (which is a type of malware), onto your device – or they could do it from shared computers by using USB sticks and similar methods.
Keyloggers are one of the most prevalent forms of spyware found on shared computers, recording all information entered before sending it onward to cybercrooks. You should avoid sharing computers at hotels or public libraries since they’re easily compromised; most forms of spyware come disguised as legitimate mobile applications or free games such as free mobile phone games; researchers estimate that one million Google Play users alone may have downloaded some form of spy-ware over just the past three years (disguised as System Update applications, yet capable of tracking users without their knowledge)!
Spyware can easily spread via social media platforms, torrent sites and emails with dangerous links – you should always take great caution before clicking anything that may contain harmful programs.
Adware, another common type of spyware, displays advertisements or redirects your searches to advertiser websites without your knowledge and approval. Although not as dangerous, Adware may still be intrusive and bothersome despite not stealing personal data directly.
As it can pose serious threats, spyware must be carefully managed or else its effect could put both you and your data at risk. It is critical that appropriate steps be taken in order to reduce exposure of spyware attacks in order to maintain privacy and secure personal data.
Tips to stay safe
- Be cautious when visiting websites offering “free” applications or content.
- Downloading software or applications for mobile devices from the internet can be risky, so to protect yourself read user reviews. Also read licensing agreements or service contracts closely in order to ascertain if more information than needed has been given access.
- Do not leave your device or computer unattended when in public. A cyber criminal could easily install spyware while you’re unaware.
- Clicking online ads may cause Adware.
- Be wary of anti-spyware scams: many ‘anti-spyware’ tools online offer free scans but falsely detect several spyware programs to get you to purchase their product
- Consider using comprehensive security software to reduce your risk. And then make sure to keep the software up-to-date.