What is spyware and adware, why they exist, and why are they a problem?
May 28th, 2010
Jason D asked:
As the questions says, what is spyware and adware, why they exist, and why are they a problem?
As the questions says, what is spyware and adware, why they exist, and why are they a problem?
Fairly detailed answers would be fantastic 
Thanks in advance
Susan
Categories: Security | Tags: Adware, Spyware, Thanks In Advance
Sabrine
Best explanation is
Collier
Are we leaving our assignments to the last minute.
Just interested to know but is this for an essay about viruses/malware that’s due tommorow. You have two questions open that are identical to the questions the contex sheet has.
Just curious to see if it is.
Tom
Spyware and adware are two forms of “malware” which is short for malicious software. What they do is get on your computer either with or without your permission and record information and behavior. This includes websites you have visited, search terms used, and unfortunately often times passwords and other sensitive information like credit cards and bank account numbers.
Spyware and adware began years ago as a means of offering programs for free or a fraction of the cost. The software would be free or cheaper because they would send the users advertisements and use the sales as a means to recoup development costs. This was the birth of “adware”. Developers then discovered if they could study the behavior of the computer user they could send more targeted ads and increase the revenue oppurtunity. This was the birth of “spyware”. Like anything else, people found they could exploit this hole and make even more money by stealing highly sensitive information.
This is why spyware and adware are a problem. Identity theft is the #1 cyber crime in the world. Spyware can be used to steal your information and make you the victim of identity theft.
If you feel you may be the victim of spyware and adware I highly recommend scanning your computer at the website below -