Malware is a generic term for spyware, adware and browser hijackers. And malware itself is one of a number of awkward little so and so’s which can make using a computer a nightmare.

Malware has a wide range of definitions and sub-groups, although what makes this subject confusing, is that different groups of people use different labels and explanations. But, generally, the main types of malware are: spyware, adware and home page hijackers (or browser hijackers).

Spyware literally spies on your computer. It might do that covertly, or overtly, creating pop-ups, or downloading so many applications onto your computer, that it slows your machine down to a snail’s pace. It also grabs usernames, passwords and bank details, sending them back to its creator.

Adware is often the price you pay for free software applications. But it’s simply not worth it. Unless you can swear by the source of the free software and trust its credentials, don’t be persuaded from the true path. Being cynical and doubting is one of the best features of a sensible surfer.

Adware gets itself installed (often as a trade-off for free goodies), then targets ads at you. But these ads are targeted because if you visit a certain site, lets say on dog leads, then it will send you dog lead adverts.

You can see the logic, but it can get quite tiresome keep getting dog lead adverts, especially when you’ve bought one, and these adware programmes are tracking your surfing habits and can be selling that information to other companies, so that they too can send you ads. Resist the adware temptation; don’t do it, because eventually a dirty piece of code will wheedle its ways into your computer and it won’t be a very enjoyable experience.

Home page hijackers are just that. It is a programme that resets your home page to its choice, not yours. And when you change your setting back to your own home page, the hijacker changes it back again. And once it’s done that, it sends you pop-ups and can even re-direct your searches. Hijackers generally don’t have a good press, and these certainly don’t, so be on your guard against them.

Malware is usually infiltrated inside your computer as part of downloaded applications, or picked up from a ‘dirty’ website, or on the back of a pop-up.

And it’s something to be avoided at all costs.

Malware, Spyware, Adware and Browser Hijackers –Recap

• malware comes in different forms;
• spyware spies
• adware provides ads;
• hijackers pinch home page
• all are bad news.