What is malware and spyware

Cybercriminals use malware to gain unauthorized access to your device, corrupt your files, or even lock down your computer. Malware often operates undetected, and you will only know that your computer is infected when harm is already done. Spyware is a form of malware designed to spy on your computer activities. Once the spyware infects your computer, it tracks your passwords and your internet activities, such as the sites you visit most, as well as your social media accounts.

Ransomware is a new malware that is specifically designed to extort you financially. Cybercriminals use ransomware to lock your computer and then ask for a ransom to unlock it. If you fail to comply with their demands, they can delete your files or corrupt your hardware.

As computing technology advances, the risks of ransomware attacks increase, meaning you need to be on a constant alert. A case-in-point example is hospital ransomware attacks, which use hospital computers to attack patients, or even shut down computer networks. However, before you comply with any ransomware demands, it is advisable to seek assistance on how best to resolve these attacks.

As mentioned above, malware is the general term for any harmful software that is used to attack your computer. Spyware is intended to creep through your files, passwords, and other sensitive information, while ransomware is designed to encrypt or lock down your computer.

Ransomware attack data-recovery techniques involve either paying the ransom or engaging an IT team to decrypt the codes and restore normal operations, which is usually the preferred course of action. Every type of malware intends to gain unauthorized access to your computer and carry out an attack. However, a key difference lies in the kinds of damage they can cause. For example, spyware will extract information about you and use it for malicious purposes, whereas ransomware seeks to extort money from you by either encrypting your files or locking down your computer until you pay to have them unencrypted or unlocked.

Much like the type of damage, the extent of the damage different malwares can cause may differ. But, cybercriminals can still use it to steal passwords, log into email or social media accounts, and post malicious or damaging information about the users.

Even worse, these criminals can also use harmful ransomware attacks to lock down your entire computer network system until you meet their payment demands. And, worse still, these attacks may also extend to harm your clients. Cybercrime statistics tell the story: A total of million people in 20 countries were affected by cybercrime in , according to Norton Cyber Security Insights Report Global Results.

Spyware contributed to those numbers. There are four main types of spyware. Each uses unique tactics to track you.

The adware will display advertisements for the same or related products or services to entice you to click or make a purchase. Adware is used for marketing purposes and can slow down your computer. This kind of malicious software disguises itself as legitimate software. For example, Trojans may appear to be a Java or Flash Player update upon download. Trojan malware is controlled by third parties. It can be used to access sensitive information such as Social Security numbers and credit card information.

Tracking cookies. System monitors. This type of spyware can capture just about everything you do on your computer. System monitors can record all keystrokes, emails, chat-room dialogs, websites visited, and programs run. System monitors are often disguised as freeware. How do I get spyware? Some of the most common ways your computer can become infected with spyware include these: Accepting a prompt or pop-up without reading it first Downloading software from an unreliable source Opening email attachments from unknown senders Pirating media such as movies, music, or games.

How to recognize spyware on your device Spyware can be difficult to recognize on your device. Your device is slow or crashes unexpectedly. Your device is running out of hard drive space. You get pop-ups when you are online or offline.

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