Viruses and Spyware Defined

07.26.2007 12:37 PM Comment(s) By Jeff

We've all heard of viruses and spyware but do we really understand the terms?  Here's some quick definitions and what you need to know to protect your computer and data.
  • Virus - A software program written to intentionally hurt, disable, or interfere with your computer.
  • Spyware - Software that gets installed (unknowingly) on your computer for the purpose of collecting information from your computer or retrieving data or information from another computer to yours. Spyware can significantly slow down your computer.
  • Trojan - A program that disguises itself as a helpful program but is actually a virus.
  • Malware - Any program that harms or disrupts your computer.

   

Jeff

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