What is spyware?

Spyware is malicious software that infiltrates a user's device, collects sensitive information, and transmits it to third parties without the user's consent. It is often bundled with legitimate applications or websites, making it difficult to detect and remove. 

Introduction to spyware

Spyware is primarily designed to gather personal data, such as browsing habits, login credentials, financial information, and keystrokes. The term "spyware" emerged in the 1990s, but it wasn't until the early 2000s that cybersecurity firms started using it to describe unwanted software that invades user privacy. 

The first anti-spyware software was released in 2000, revealing that around 80% of internet users had been affected by spyware. Nearly 89% of these users were unaware of its existence, and 95% had not permitted its installation.

Types of spyware

Spyware comes in various forms, each with its own capabilities and purposes.

Adware

Adware is a type of spyware that monitors a user's activity on their device and sells their data to advertisers or malicious actors. It can serve up malicious ads or collect personal information for targeted advertising.

Infostealer

Infostealer spyware scans devices for specific information and conversations, collecting data such as email content, passwords, text messages, and usernames. This type of spyware often targets sensitive information, which can be used for malicious purposes.

Keyloggers

Keyloggers, also known as keystroke loggers, record every keystroke a user makes on an infected device. This includes sensitive data such as passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal information. 

Rootkits

Rootkits allow attackers to gain deep access to a device by exploiting security vulnerabilities or obtaining administrative privileges. Rootkits are particularly challenging to detect and remove, making them a significant threat to device security.

Tracking cookies

Tracking cookies are small files dropped onto a user's device by websites to track their online activity. While not as invasive as other types of spyware, they can still compromise privacy by monitoring a user's browsing habits.

Trojan horse virus

A trojan horse virus is a type of spyware that disguises itself as legitimate software. It enters a device through Trojan malware, responsible for delivering the spyware program. Once inside, it can perform various malicious actions, including data theft and system damage.

Read also: Types of cyber threats 

The functionality of spyware

Spyware follows a three-step process:

1. Infiltration

Spyware typically infiltrates a device through malicious websites, file attachments, or even legitimate applications that have been tampered with. Attackers often disguise spyware within regular downloads or websites, making it difficult for users to detect its presence.

2. Monitoring and capturing

Once installed, spyware immediately begins monitoring a user's activities on their device. It captures sensitive data such as login credentials, browsing history, and keystrokes using screen captures, keylogging, and tracking codes. The captured information provides attackers valuable insights into the user's digital life.

3. Data transmission

After collecting the desired information, the attacker will either use it for their own purposes or sell it to a third party. The stolen data can be exploited internally to spoof the user's identity or launch targeted cyberattacks. On the other hand, selling the data can provide financial gain for data organizations or other malicious actors.

Related: What is spoofing?

The consequences of spyware

The presence of spyware on a device can have far-reaching consequences.

Data theft

Attackers use spyware to steal personal information, which can be sold to third parties or used for malicious purposes. This stolen data can include sensitive information such as passwords, financial details, and browsing habits.

Identity fraud

Spyware that gathers extensive data can enable identity fraud. By collecting a user's browsing history, login credentials, and personal information, attackers can impersonate the user and carry out fraudulent activities. Identity fraud can have severe financial and reputational consequences for individuals and businesses.

Device damage

Some poorly designed spyware can negatively impact the performance of a device. It can drain system resources, slow down internet speeds, and even cause crashes and freezes. In extreme cases, spyware can disable security software and cause permanent damage to the device.

Browsing disruption

Certain types of spyware can take control of a user's browser, redirecting searches and serving up unwanted websites or ads. It can modify browser settings, change homepages, and inundate users with pop-up ads. This disrupts the browsing experience and exposes users to potential security risks.

See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide 

In the news

In a recent move by the Polish parliament, opposition leader Michał Woś has had his legal immunity lifted to face prosecution over his alleged involvement in purchasing Pegasus spyware during his tenure in the former ruling majority. Accused of abusing power and trust, Woś could potentially face up to a decade in prison for each charge. The decision follows a request from Poland’s prosecutor general and justice minister Adam Bodnar, amid revelations that nearly 600 individuals, including opposition figures, were targeted for surveillance using Pegasus. This scandal shows broader concerns about the misuse of surveillance technology for political purposes, indicating ongoing legal and ethical debates surrounding its deployment.

FAQs

What is spyware and how does it relate to healthcare security?

Spyware is malicious software designed to secretly gather information about a person or organization. In healthcare, spyware poses a big threat by compromising patient privacy, stealing sensitive medical data, and potentially disrupting healthcare operations.

Why is spyware a threat to healthcare organizations?

Spyware is a threat because it can silently collect sensitive patient information, including medical records and personal data. This compromises patient confidentiality, violates healthcare regulations such as HIPAA, and can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, or misuse of medical information.

What measures can healthcare facilities take to prevent spyware infections?

Healthcare facilities can prevent spyware infections by implementing cybersecurity measures, such as installing and regularly updating anti-spyware software, using firewalls and intrusion detection systems, conducting regular security audits, and educating staff about safe internet browsing practices and phishing threats.

How does spyware impact HIPAA compliance?

Spyware impacts HIPAA compliance by compromising the security and privacy of protected health information (PHI). Unauthorized access to or theft of PHI through spyware constitutes a breach under HIPAA regulations, potentially resulting in legal penalties, reputational damage, and loss of patient trust.