Years ago, malicious software was, for the most part, simply intended to cause chaos or file destruction while massaging the ego of its writer. Now, the situation is somewhat different. Malicious software is created with the intention of financial gain, with the creator being paid for every advertisement he can pop up on your desktop, going to market with your private information, or even assuming your identity to make purchases. This sort of software is referred to as "spyware".

Spyware is often installed on your machine with your permission, tagging along with a game or application that you want to use, or it can be installed by certain network worms. It then begins collecting information about you and sending it to someone else.

Computer Associates' Spyware Encyclopedia

To reach this page quickly in the future, use the keyword spyware.

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