Adware has become the most prolific type of spware
There are currently three sub-categories of spyware: spyware itself, adware and PUPs. Adware is a type of spyware that displays adverts on infected computers using pop-ups, banners, etc. Spyware compiles information about users’ Internet activity, such as websites visited, searches made, etc, but does not display any adverts. This sub-category was responsible for just over 6.5 percent of all spyware detections in January. The third sub-category is PUPs. Although not strictly speaking spyware, PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) are classed as such given their similar behavior. These programs are installed without users’ knowledge and can interfere with the use of a computer. PUPs accounted for over 26 percent of spyware detections. The ranking of the most active spyware in January once again saw Gator in first place. This adware offers free use of an application in turn for displaying certain ads. Some versions of Gator even replace banners on websites visited for ones the malicious code creates itself.
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