Definition
Spyware is a type of malicious software designed to secretly gather information about a person or organization without their knowledge or consent. It operates by monitoring user activity, collecting data like browsing habits, login credentials, and financial details. Understanding spyware is crucial for protecting sensitive information and maintaining system integrity in any professional environment. For instance, a keylogger, a form of spyware, can record every keystroke made on an infected computer, potentially capturing passwords. Unlike viruses that replicate, spyware's primary goal is data exfiltration rather than system disruption. This topic is frequently assessed on cybersecurity certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and CySA+.