Spyware through the ages
With the proliferation of communication tools, spyware has exploded as a tool used by hackers to track and steal personal data. Spying can be traced back to the ancient writings of Sun Tzu. The second-century BC Chinese military general and strategist taught lessons on deception and subversion in “The Art of War” that are still studied today. Although the purpose of spying remains the same, the manner in which it is conducted has evolved immensely since Sun Tzu. Date privacy and protection is now a concern for business. “Spyware” is term familiar to technology security gurus and the public alike. Initially a primitive way to obtain information about a Web surfer’s activity, spyware now encompasses a host of software technologies that are designed to illicitly gather data. This rapid change brings new possibilities for abuse and exploitation. As people become more connected, there is a risk that awareness of these threats will lag behind reality.