Spyware is a type of computer software that is designed to collect personal information about the computers user without their consent. The term spyware was first used in 1995 but it wasn’t widely known until the year 2000. Other names for spyware are adware and malware. Malware is software that is used to get into someone’s computer and damage the hard drive. Personal information is quietly being recorded with a wide range of methods including your log in keystrokes, when you browse the internet history and when you scan a document from the scanner to the hard drive.

There are many reasons why a person would want to steal your information but the main reason is so they could sell it to the highest bidding agency. Some steal to gain your information for the purpose of identity theft. Some spyware applications include tracking your web movement to see where you have been and what you are looking it. Then there are the sole purposes of trying to get bank account information so they can steal money from the bank account or maybe purchase something online.

Because of the great deal of spyware that was being developed, companies began creating anti spyware software. These work by installing the software and disabling any spyware that may be found in your computer. Some companies already have spyware built into their computers so you never have to worry about someone trying to destroy or steal your information. There are hundreds of spyware and anti spyware software out there. If you are buying a computer make sure that it comes with anti spyware software and if it doesn’t then buy a program before it is too late.