getting unauthorized access to a computer in order to exercise remote control over it (remote control software uses different methods and means, including backdoors, botnets and so on).recording and storing screenshots (with this specific aim spyware called screen scrapers is developed).memorizing keystrokes made by a user on the keyboard (this is usually done by specialized software called keyloggers).collecting information on Internet-users’ habits and the most frequently visited sites (that’s just what most tracking programs do).Generally, spy software for computer is able to deliver the following functions: Some of the programs are quite versatile, while others are rather specific. What Can the Spies Do?īoth malicious and legal apps can feature the same functionality however they all are not alike. Well, now it seems that spy computer software isn’t so bad, is it? Then let’s talk about what all these bad and good programs have in common. Passive monitoring technologies can be useful for personalization of web pages visited by a user.Programs for security system status analysis assist in testing computer systems security.
Tracking software is a type of spyware and some spyware is malware, this is true. Obviously, there is some difference between malicious spyware and "good programs", so let’s find out how they differ.
Actually, even Windows has the parental control function coming as standard and it works exactly like any other spying software for PC. Tracking (or monitoring) software is also classified as spyware, but it is widely used all around the world and it is used legally! For example, these programs serve as parental control to prevent children from watching unsuitable content, as well as to track employees in offices in order to provide work time control. So, can we conclude that all programs of this type are malicious and illegal to use?
In fact, both types of software can perform the same functions, such as keeping logs of applications launching, recording keystrokes, taking screenshots at certain intervals and then sending all the collected information to a person, who installed and configured the PC spying software. Quite often, this term is also used to describe spyware including Trojans, thus implying that this type of programs is installed on computers for malicious purposes only.
All posts Computer Spy Programs: Right or Wrong?Ĭomputer spy software is a class of computer programs that allows a PC user or administrator to monitor other users’ activity on their desktops.