What Are Viruses, Malware, Spyware and Adware?

The internet allows us to stay in touch with friends, buy products and do research, adding a level of convenience to our lives. These benefits can simplify many of our daily tasks, but it's vital you remember that the internet can be a dangerous place. Criminals have created many types of malicious programs for a variety of reasons, and getting one of those programs installed on your computer can have devastating results. If you don't want to expose yourself to the threat, learn about the dangers that you might encounter. With the right knowledge, you will be able to take steps to keep yourself and your system out of harm's way.

Malware

Malware is a generic term that describes any program that is designed to cause harm to a system or network. In some situations, the software will be invisible, and you won't even know that it's there. On the other hand, severe cases can destroy your files, expose you to identity theft and cause an untold amount of damage. No matter who you are, overlooking the threat of malicious software is not smart.

Virus

A computer virus is a type of program that will spread itself to other areas of the system or infect other programs. This threat can perform a number of actions, but its ability to self-replicate is its defining feature. It usually comes with a payload that will activate when certain conditions are met. If you are infected, your computer will likely run slower than normal, but your personal information could also get compromised. Removing these programs from your system manually is not an easy task to complete, but failing to address the issue increases the danger.

Spyware

Spyware is another harmful program at which we are going to look, and it will sit on your computer as you engage in your normal activities. Without your knowledge, it will send your system information and files to the criminal who is responsible for the infection. Your browsing history could be uploaded, but some programs will even take screenshots of your desktop to expose. When you have this threat on your computer, someone could be monitoring every move that you make.

Adware

Adware will also monitor what you do online, but it sends the information to an affiliate or ad company. The software will use your browsing habits to display content that might interest you, but the ads will likely limit your ability to enjoy your time on the computer. Taking steps to remove the program is important, and you can't waste any time.

Anti-Virus Software

The internet might have many threats waiting behind every corner, but you are not powerless when it comes to protecting yourself. If you don't want to get infected with harmful software, it's time to install a reputable anti-virus program. A good anti-virus program will monitor and scan your files, removing any threats that are present on your system. Your computer will then run at its best, and you won't need to worry about getting compromised.