Spyware | Information Technology Services (2024)

FAQs

What is spyware technology? ›

Spyware is malicious software that enters a user's computer, gathers data from the device and user, and sends it to third parties without their consent. A commonly accepted spyware definition is a strand of malware designed to access and damage a device without the user's consent.

Overview. Spyware is mostly classified into four types: adware, system monitors, tracking including web tracking, and trojans; examples of other notorious types include digital rights management capabilities that "phone home", keyloggers, rootkits, and web beacons.

Spyware is software that secretly infects your computer to monitor and report on your activity and provide information to a third party. It might track websites you visit, files you download, your location (if you're on a smartphone), your emails, contacts, payment information or even passwords to your accounts.

Mobile spyware is malware that allows hackers to steal information and watch anything within view of your phone camera. It can also enable them to access your microphone, location, calendar, and contacts. This makes it possible for hackers to record your videos and calls.

Download and use security software to scan your PC.

Malware protection programs will search your system for hidden and dangerous programs, including spyware. Best of all, these programs also scan incoming files for threats and alert you when they detect something dangerous.

Spyware apps surreptitiously run on a device, most often without the device owner's awareness.

Can someone spy on my phone? ›

How can someone remotely access my phone? Spyware/malware: Installed via phishing links or malicious app downloads. Wi-Fi interception: Using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Exploitation of software vulnerabilities: Attackers exploit unpatched security holes in your phone's operating system or apps.

Spyware is software installed without your knowledge or consent that can monitor your online activities and collect personal information while you're online. Some kinds of spyware, called keyloggers, record everything you key in—including your passwords and financial information.

Check for remote access programs

Some notable examples to look out for are TeamViewer, LogMeIn, and AnyDesk. On Windows, open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. On a Mac, open the Activity Monitor by pressing Command + Space.

Check the recent activity on your computer: Look for anything you don't recognize -- recently accessed files, login events, browser history, and system logs. Review installed programs: Look for remote access programs you didn't install. Some of the most common apps include LogMeIn and TeamViewer.

Open the Task Manager by hitting Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Under the Processes tab, you'll see the apps and background processes running on your PC. Look through the list. If you see a name you don't recognize, do a search to see what turns up.

Damage to your device: Spyware can drain the performance of your device, making it run slowly or lag. Browsing disruptions: Spyware can alter your device's settings and search engine results. Data theft: Your email accounts, passwords, browsing history, and social network access may be stolen.

Common Symptoms of Spyware

Unusual slowness of your system. Unusual instability in your system (computer crashes more than usual) Odd behavior in Internet Explorer or other browsers, such as redirection to search sites that you've never seen, or your homepage has been switched to a different page.

Keep your antispyware software updated and run it regularly. To avoid spyware in the first place, download software only from sites you know and trust. Make sure apps you install on a mobile device come from the Apple App Store for iPhones or Google Play for Android devices.