Spyware Explained

Spyware is computer software that is installed surreptitiously on a personal computer to intercept or take partial control over the user's interaction with the computer, without the user's informed consent.
 

Unfortunately the term spyware suggests that the software only secretly monitors the user's behavior but the functions of spyware extend well beyond simple monitoring. Spyware programs can collect various types of personal information, but can also interfere with user control of the computer in other ways, such as installing additional software, redirecting Web browser activity, or diverting advertising revenue to a third party. in such case, the distributer of the Spyware uses it to perform actions such as creating unsolicited pop-ups, hijacks of home- or search- pages, or redirects browsing results. This is what makes the Spyware interesting for internet marketers.
 
Most Spyware distributers use Toolbars to spread their product. Toolbars are add-on applications for Web browser like Microsofts Internet Explorer, Firefox or Opera. These Toolbars provide additional functionality that is often not included within the browser but can also be used for Tracking users' online behavior, gather information about the user including personally identifiable or other sensitive information.
 

In response to the emergence of spyware, a small industry has sprung up dealing in anti-spyware software. Running anti-spyware software has become a widely recognized element of computer security best practices for Microsoft Windows desktop computers. A number of jurisdictions have passed anti-spyware laws, which usually target any software that is surreptitiously installed to control a user's computer.