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Spyware: What Is It and How It Works

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Every year, new iPhones, desktop Windows version and other systems appear on market, featuring more sophisticated software. Similarly, new generation of viruses, malware, spyware and other malicious software are also introduced often.

Among other malicious software, spyware is considered less harmful. So, it is often not taken seriously.

Initially, spyware were used as a marketing aid, becoming a nuisance for the victims soon. Now, it’s more than just an irritating spam. In this era of information and data, spyware have become one of the most threatening software.

Let’s learn a bit more about spyware.

What is spyware?

It is used as a blanket term for software that gathers information about your activity and device. It then sends over this information to a third-party over the Internet. Some may ask your permission, but most do not.

Usually, it installs itself on the device without your knowledge. Then it keeps running in the background, collecting information, sending you targeted advertisements and/or changing your various computer settings.

Spyware are most often malicious, exploiting your personal information such as user names, passwords, even credit card details!

What does spyware do?

People often think that spyware only collects information for advisement—what can go wrong?

Here’s a list of things that spyware do once it gets to your system:

  • Track browser habits and program use for marketing purposes
  • Redirect to distasteful or otherwise compromising and advertising sites
  • Sends you annoying pop ups, time and again
  • Collect personal information

This includes different types of information, including account logins for online gaming sites, emails and social media networks, and other business and financial credentials. It can also record your Skype chats, take screenshots, control webcams and alter your hard drive.

It can modify your browser by changing the home page and installing add-ons that are hard to get rid of. Running in the background, it slows down your computer and may even cause it to crash.

Now you know how much it invades your system, and your privacy. It’s a breach of security that can considerably harmful.

How can you prevent the spyware?

Spyware is usually tagged on freebies. Music and video sharing sites are loaded with pop-up windows; here you end up inadvertently clicking something or another. Pass the freebies and download original content. The risk is clearly greater than the benefit here.

Emails are another common source that can be avoided by not opening spam mails and/ or clicking suspicious links.

If you want comprehensive security against all sources of spyware, install antivirus software. It will protect you against all malicious software, including spyware.

Opt for Excel Tech Guru’s 24/7 virus and spyware removal services for high optimum protection. Choose Norton antivirus and let our online Norton help and support services do the rest for you.

Visit our website, call our toll free number +1 (878)-999-8893 , or simply write to us at support@exceltechguru.com for antivirus support and services.

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