While most people know about cookies and privacy policies guaranteed by law, few are aware of what is spyware and how it can damage your device. In many cases, this type of malware can be even more dangerous than viruses, as it doesn’t only destroy, but collect data as well.
Additionally, spyware is numerous in strains and types. There is no point in defending against a single type of spyware.
Thankfully, there are ways to prevent any spyware from infecting your devices and send private information back to wherever it came from.
Using a premium personal VPN like Le VPN will block snoopers and hackers with a secured server, while anti-spyware software will clean any residue on your device that may have got there directly through transfer or download.
So, what is Spyware?
Spyware is a type of malware made to see and manipulate data on your device.
There is spyware for anything from Android and iOS smartphones to desktop computers and even many smart devices. Most hackers realized that the best way to spread spyware is through the Internet of Things (IoT).
When infected with spyware, the hacker will be able to see content from your device and, in some cases, even individual files stored. This includes any pictures, videos, and even banking information if you use m-banking.
The most dangerous type of spyware is the Trojan horse, which can even download to and from your device without your permission.
Also, there is always a chance of government surveillance, which is why so many locals currently use the VPN Venezuela server.
Why Would Someone Spy on Me?
Depending on who is doing the spying, the reasons are numerous.
Companies and institutions might be using cookies to tracks where you are clicking on the webpage and create your digital profile, so to send you ads.
Basic spyware is made to monitor your internet traffic and collect the same type of data as companies, but for your specific device. Later, they will sell this information to other murky groups.
Finally, some want to steal your data for direct financial gain. They will do this either by hacking your bank details directly or by keeping your private files for ransom.
If you have any delicate business or private files, you might be blackmailed unless you want them published, which is commonly called ransomware.
Is All Spyware Bad?
There is no such thing as good spyware. No benefits are gained by allowing any spyware to be connected to your device.
But, that doesn’t mean that all spyware is severely malicious software that will destroy your device or your life. Some types, like cookies, are just annoying.
Spyware that doesn’t have the capability to ‘phone home’ will not damage your device. Some slowdowns will occur, but nothing that can’t be solved.
Even for these types of spyware, there is still no need to keep them on your devices. Additionally, as the point of entry for destructive and benign spyware is the same, it is easier to protect yourself from all types at the same time.
Cookies
Unlike grandma’s, you don’t like anyone offering you HTTP cookies.
This is a small data packet used by websites or online services to remember your activity on their page or app. With this information, they can tailor your ads, or remember where you last left your page.
Generally speaking, cookies are not directly harmful. But, since that website can be hacked and the cookies changed, it is safer to let them attack the VPN server rather than your device.
Thankfully, by learning what is TOR browser, and installing this simple application to your device, you can divert any cookie information and scramble any useful data.
Types of Spyware
There are many debates on what is spyware exactly and do all types of spying software that constitute this group. Some hacking protocols like keyloggers are much more direct and can be seen as ‘hacker tools’.
Regardless of the definition, three major groups of spyware are always harmful to your computer or smartphone.
Adware
While not the most dangerous, by far the most annoying from the bunch. This type of spyware will not only collect your data but force your devices to play ads that bring income to the developer.
With it, you will see random webpages open in your browser, dozens of unwanted pop-ups, and even software being downloaded and installed without you clicking anything.
Also, these ad-leaches are notoriously hard to clean once you are infected.
System Monitors
With this type of spyware, you will delegate what are, in essence, administrative privileges to the spyware.
With it, they can fiddle with your system, and even physically damage your phone or computer if they so want.
Trojan Horses
Trojans enter your device and provide administrator access to whoever is on the other side. With the Trojan installed, they will be able to manipulate your data for as long as your device is online.
If you have any sensitive information, this is the most dangerous type of spyware.
Protecting Yourself
The good news about spyware is that it can be easily thwarted by using a premium VPN. Protecting your privacy is the main reason why use VPN in the first place, and here is where it shines.
All spying will be attempted on a VPN server, which is a much harder nut to crack.
Conclusion
Spyware is always annoying and can be potentially dangerous.
Thankfully, by using a premium VPN provider like Le VPN, you will be protected by the VPN server and will never find out what is spyware meant for you and what it was capable of.
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Written by Vuk Mujović @VukMujovic
Vuk Mujović is the founder of MacTíre Consulting, an analyst, data management expert, and a long-term writer on all things business & tech. He authored blogs, articles, and opinion pieces aimed to help both companies and individuals achieve growth without compromising their security. Vuk is a regular guest author to Le VPN Blog since January 2018, where he gives his expert opinion on the topics related to cybersecurity, privacy, online freedom, and personal data protection. He also often shares his tips and best practices in relation to internet security and digital safety of private individuals and small businesses, including some additional applications of using a VPN service.
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