Spyware , or spyware, consists of a type of malicious software , also known as malware , that installs itself on our computer, tablet or mobile phone without our authorization (and even on many occasions without realizing it). Not only does it invade the device, it can also steal confidential information, in addition to capturing the use we make on the internet to later transmit it to external users, data companies or advertisers.
The truth is that any software that has been downloaded without the express authorization of the user can be classified as spyware. Therefore, it becomes one of the most common threats for users who continuously surf the Internet. And, once installed, it monitors the person’s activity on the internet, tracks their login credentials (both user and password), and can also spy on confidential information.
In most cases they pursue the objective of obtaining passwords for access to multiple online services, credit card numbers and bank information. In addition, it is usually difficult to detect , although there are some “symptoms” that can alert us to it. At first, the most common thing is to notice a notable reduction in the speed of the internet connection, or the processor. Whereas, in the case of mobile phones, it can have a major influence on battery life and data usage.
Even if you have never faced this problem, it is always convenient to know how we can prevent the installation of any spyware on our computer, or mobile phone. We explain some guidelines and tips that you should keep in mind.
Safe browsing and good practices
Always download files only from trusted sources
Whenever possible, try to download the software directly from the original developer’s official website. In addition, it is convenient to take special care with that software that requests our personal information, or even tries to install other applications or additional programs.
If you use Windows, remember to be especially careful with executable files , such as .exe and .msi, especially when they come from unknown sources. In this sense, Microsoft uses a specific digital signature for trusted developers, so the user will be notified when the installer of that specific software does not have one.
If you use macOS X, you probably know that as of version 10.8 this operating system only allows, by default, the installation of applications from trusted developers. Similarly, you can check these settings through System Preferences and Security & Privacy .
When it comes to mobile devices, iOS users can only install applications from the App Store, which is why they are considered almost one hundred percent secure. Outside of this service, it is not possible to do so unless the device is jailbroken.
In the case of Android, by default users can only install applications from the Play Store, although it can allow installation from unknown sources.
Make sure your web browser is updated to the latest version
Keeping our web browser properly updated, with the latest version, ensures that the latest security fixes are active, especially while browsing our favorite websites.
In many cases, most modern browsers tend to update themselves in the background, as they become available, so we will have practically nothing to do.
Analyze files that have been downloaded without your permission
Although in most cases the browser warns us from the moment a web page tries to download a file to our computer, it is always a good idea to go directly to the ‘Downloads’ folder to check, by date, the latest downloaded files .
