Now more than ever, it’s important to protect against spyware! While you’re working on your computer in a local coffee shop, someone from halfway around the world could be silently invading your privacy and stealing your personal information.
What is spyware?
Spyware is a type of malicious software designed to secretly access your device, steal sensitive data, and invade your privacy without your consent. Spyware can:
- Monitor your online activities.
- Collect personal data like passwords, credit card information, contacts, messages, and financial information.
- Access your files, including photos.
- Capture what you type on your device.
- Track your location.
- Activate your device’s camera or microphone without your knowledge.
While spyware is most commonly associated with computers, tablets, and smartphones, other devices can also be vulnerable—such as smart TVs, security cameras, fitness trackers, and more. No device connected to the internet is completely safe.
Fortunately, through vigilance and the right tools, you can stop spyware and protect your online privacy!
How do you know if your device has spyware?
Although spyware usually runs quietly in the background, you might notice the following signs:
- Your device is running unusually slowly.
- Your apps are malfunctioning or launching on their own.
- You receive strange notifications.
- You notice an unusually high amount of data being used.
- Your camera or microphone turns on unexpectedly.
However, the most reliable way to detect spyware is to use trusted security software and keep it up to date.
How do you protect against spyware?
While spyware is a persistent threat, you can take proactive steps toward spyware prevention:
- Use reputable antivirus or anti-malware software to detect, block, and regularly scan for spyware.
- Regularly update your operating system, security software, and apps. These updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails, text messages, and websites—and be cautious about downloading attachments or software from untrusted sources.
- Regularly review and disable permissions for microphone, camera, and location access for any apps that don’t require them.
- Go to your device’s privacy settings and disable microphone and camera access globally for all apps when not needed.
- Prevent apps from constantly tracking your movements by disabling location services in your device’s settings when not required.
- Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks.
- Enable two-factor authentication, which makes it much harder for attackers to gain access to your accounts, even if they bypass your device’s defenses.
- Cover your device’s camera when you’re not using it. You can use a webcam cover or a piece of opaque tape to block the camera lens.
- Turn off or limit the “always listening” feature in the settings of voice assistants.
How do you stop spyware?
If you discover that your device has become infected with spyware, take immediate action:
- Disconnect your device from the internet.
- Run a full security scan using antivirus or anti-spyware software to identify and eliminate spyware or remote access tools hiding on your system.
- Change your passwords for online accounts.
- Get help from a cybersecurity professional to ensure your device is completely clean.
What is the difference between spyware and adware?
Adware and spyware are both types of malware, but they differ in intent. Adware is designed to display unwanted ads or redirect users to advertising sites. While it can slow down your device and disrupt your browsing, adware typically doesn’t steal personal data, though it may track your online activity. To get rid of adware:
- Run a full scan with trusted antivirus or anti-malware software.
- Uninstall any suspicious programs or browser extensions.
- Clear your browser’s cache and reset your settings.
What is the difference between spyware and cookies?
Cookies are tiny text files placed on your device by websites to improve your web experience. First-party cookies (set by the website you’re visiting) remember login details, preferences, and shopping cart items. Unlike spyware, cookies don’t steal personal data, but third-party cookies can track your activity across sites to personalize content and ads. To manage cookies:
- Regularly review privacy settings and delete unneeded cookies.
- Set your browser to block third-party cookies.
- Use privacy-focused browsers or add-on extensions to limit cookie tracking.
Protect your online privacy and security!
Spyware prevention is just one aspect of digital security. By educating yourself, practicing good habits, and using the right tools, you can build a robust defense against all types of cyber threats. At Coast Central Credit Union, safeguarding your security is our highest priority. Explore our comprehensive Fraud & Scams Resources to stay informed, empowered, and safe.
Coast Central – Where YOU are central.