Introduction to Threat Encyclopedia

The Threat Encyclopedia is where we arm you with knowledge to help you understand and avoid malware.

This isn’t an in-depth analysis of malware code but instead covers the basics and helps you understand the threats AVG security products help protect you from.

Adware:

Adware is the name given to advertising supported software which in itself is neither illegal nor harmful to the end user. Even legitimate adware can however pose a privacy risk to users. Adware survives by serving advertisements to the user which allow them to offer software or utilities to the user for free. A famous example of adware is Gator.

However, some adware can come with malware integrated which can be harmful to users; these include everything from spyware, keyloggers and even Trojan infections.

The spyware tracks the user’s online activity and builds a profile of the user. The adware owner can then sell premium “targeted” ads aimed at specific segments or user’s particular interests.

Most users are not happy sharing their personal information or browsing information; at least unwittingly.

Fortunately, adware is becoming less popular in favor of phishing meaning that the threat of accidentally installing adware is on the decline.

Users should however exercise caution when installing programs or applications which offer free services and utilities unless from a recognized provider. Should users experience unwanted advertising pop-ups or webpage redirects after installing a piece of suspicious software, it would be advisable to uninstall the software.

As always, it is important for users to have security software installed to help ensure that any malware or spyware is caught before it can do any damage.