Spyware is malicious software that infiltrates a user's device, collects sensitive information, and transmits it to third parties without the user's consent. It is often bundled with legitimate applications or websites, making it difficult to detect and remove.
Introduction to spyware
Spyware is primarily designed to gather personal data, such as browsing habits, login credentials, financial information, and keystrokes. The term "spyware" emerged in the 1990s, but it wasn't until the early 2000s that cybersecurity firms started using it to describe unwanted software that invades user privacy.
The first anti-spyware software was released in 2000, revealing that around 80% of internet users had been affected by spyware. Nearly 89% of these users were unaware of its existence, and 95% had not permitted its installation.
Types of spyware
Spyware comes in various forms, each with its own capabilities and purposes.
Adware
Adware is a type of spyware that monitors a user's activity on their device and sells their data to advertisers or malicious actors. It can serve up malicious ads or collect personal information for targeted advertising.
Infostealer
Infostealer spyware scans devices for specific information and conversations, collecting data such as email content, passwords, text messages, and usernames. This type of spyware often targets sensitive information, which can be used for malicious purposes.
Keyloggers
Keyloggers, also known as keystroke loggers, record every keystroke a user makes on an infected device. This includes sensitive data such as passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal information.
Rootkits
Rootkits allow attackers to gain deep access to a device by exploiting security vulnerabilities or obtaining administrative privileges. Rootkits are particularly challenging to detect and remove, making them a significant threat to device security.
Tracking cookies
Tracking cookies are small files dropped onto a user's device by websites to track their online activity. While not as invasive as other types of spyware, they can still compromise privacy by monitoring a user's browsing habits.
Trojan horse virus
A trojan horse virus is a type of spyware that disguises itself as legitimate software. It enters a device through Trojan malware, responsible for delivering the spyware program. Once inside, it can perform various malicious actions, including data theft and system damage.
Read also: Types of cyber threats
The functionality of spyware
Spyware follows a three-step process:
1. Infiltration
Spyware typically infiltrates a device through malicious websites, file attachments, or even legitimate applications that have been tampered with. Attackers often disguise spyware within regular downloads or websites, making it difficult for users to detect its presence.
2. Monitoring and capturing
Once installed, spyware immediately begins monitoring a user's activities on their device. It captures sensitive data such as login credentials, browsing history, and keystrokes using screen captures, keylogging, and tracking codes. The captured information provides attackers valuable insights into the user's digital life.
3. Data transmission
After collecting the desired information, the attacker will either use it for their own purposes or sell it to a third party. The stolen data can be exploited internally to spoof the user's identity or launch targeted cyberattacks. On the other hand, selling the data can provide financial gain for data organizations or other malicious actors.
Related: What is spoofing?
The consequences of spyware
The presence of spyware on a device can have far-reaching consequences.
Data theft
Attackers use spyware to steal personal information, which can be sold to third parties or used for malicious purposes. This stolen data can include sensitive information such as passwords, financial details, and browsing habits.
Identity fraud
Spyware that gathers extensive data can enable identity fraud. By collecting a user's browsing history, login credentials, and personal information, attackers can impersonate the user and carry out fraudulent activities. Identity fraud can have severe financial and reputational consequences for individuals and businesses.
Device damage
Some poorly designed spyware can negatively impact the performance of a device. It can drain system resources, slow down internet speeds, and even cause crashes and freezes. In extreme cases, spyware can disable security software and cause permanent damage to the device.
Browsing disruption
Certain types of spyware can take control of a user's browser, redirecting searches and serving up unwanted websites or ads. It can modify browser settings, change homepages, and inundate users with pop-up ads. This disrupts the browsing experience and exposes users to potential security risks.
See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
Farah Amod
