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A worm
is a subcategory of virus which, unlike a normal virus, does not need
a "carrier" object to attach to; it sends itself to other computers self-
contained, usually via e-mail, and as a result often overloads e-mail servers
and network systems.
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Spyware
is usually defined as a malware category (
malware = any malicious
software, including viruses
) encompassing programs – typically Trojan horses –
aimed at stealing personal information, passwords, credit card numbers, or
infiltrating a computer and allowing the attacker to control it remotely; of
course, all without the computer owner's knowledge or consent.
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Potentially unwanted programs
are a type of spyware that can be may but
not necessarily have to be dangerous to your computer. A specific example of
a PUP is adware, software designed to distribute advertisements, usually by
displaying ad pop-ups; annoying, but not really harmful.
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Tracking cookies
can also be considered a kind of spyware, as these small
files, stored in the web browser and sent automatically to the "parent" website
when you visit it again, can contain data such as your browsing history and
other similar information.
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Exploit
is a malicious code that takes advantage of a flaw or vulnerability in
an operating system, Internet browser, or other essential program.
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Phishing
is an attempt to acquire sensitive personal data by shamming a
trustworthy and well-known organization. Usually, the potential victims are
contacted by a bulk e-mail asking them to e.g. update their bank account
details. In order to do that, they are invited to follow the link provided which
then leads to a fake website of the bank.
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Hoax
is a bulk e-mail containing dangerous, alarming or just bothering and
useless information. Many of the above threats use hoax e-mail messages to
spread.
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Malicious websites
are ones that deliberately install malicious software on
your computer, and hacked sites do just the same, only these are legitimate
websites that have been compromised into infecting visitors.
To protect you from all of these different kinds of threats, AVG includes these
specialized components:
·
Anti-Virus
to protect your computer from viruses,
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Anti-Spyware
to protect your computer from spyware.
