I'm writing an article about spyware, and realized that I probably need to offer some definitions first. So here's how I define a number of commonly used terms in the computer security world.
Malware - Any program or application that does harm to your computer. This includes everything from viruses that can delete files to adware that displays endless pop-up ads to applications that can be annoying and use too much system resources, such as RealPlayer.
Spyware - Any program that collects information about how you use your computer for the purpose of reporting it back to someone else. The most common examples are programs that watch what web sites you visit so that they can target specific ads for you. These programs can also be more malicious and attempt to steal passwords and other personal information. These programs can be very challenging to remove.
Adware - Displays pop-up ads. These programs sometimes get installed in the background when you download free games or tools from disreputable sites. It can be very hard to remove these programs.
Virus - A program or application that attaches itself to a legitimate program or file. When you run the file or program, the virus executes as well and often attempts to copy itself at that point. There are many different types and variations of viruses. The most common way they are spread today is by e-mail or malicious web sites. Some famous examples of e-mail viruses are Melissa and ILOVEYOU.
Trojan - A program that appears to be one thing, like a fun game, but actually contains malicious code that runs instead. They don't replicate on their own, but rather try to lure you into downloading and running it by claiming to be something else. Don't be fooled; someone did not just send you a pony, there are soldiers with weapons inside.
Worm - Basically, a worm is a virus that can replicate and spread itself on with no user interaction. Once running on a compromised computer, the worm seeks out other vulnerable computers on the network and tries to infect them. A particularly malicious worm, such as Mydoom, can bring an entire network to its knees in a very short amount of time.
Phishing - Attempting to steal credentials and personal information by posing as a legitimate organization. For example, a phisher might send an e-mail that looks like it came from your bank and asks you to verify some personal information. When you click the link, you are actually directed to the phishers web site which collects whatever personal information they can convince you to give up.
For more information, How Stuff Works has great articles on viruses, phishing, and more on computer security.
Comments (1)
Use a firewall and never download anything that is the wrong size a movie is big like 700mb to a gig a virus or trojan is small like 3kb ect. More info here: Maycha.com
Posted by eric matthew | July 16, 2008 10:32 PM
Posted on July 16, 2008 22:32