Introduction
Malware
Malware is short for malicious software, a general term used to cover a wide range of programs that are purposely designed to attack, degrade or prevent the intended use of a computer.
Types of malware include viruses,spyware and adware as well as a range of other dangerous software, such as key loggers and rogue diallers.
We've already looked in some detail at viruses.
Spyware is software which monitors what you are doing on your computer, eg: what web site you are visiting and reports this information back to someone. Key loggers are a particular type of spyware that record every keystroke you make.
Adware is software which displays unwanted adverts on your screen, often as popups.
Rogue diallers can take over a modem and cause it to dial-up expensive websites.
Malware should not be confused with legitimate software that may contain errors or bugs.
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Next: Spyware
