As customers use certain software, adware provides advertising to offset software development costs. Don’t confuse adware with spyware and malware, which have potentially malicious effects.

Usually included with most computer systems, it detects, repairs, cleans, or removes virus-infected files. Some anti-virus products also detect and remove spyware, malware, Trojan Horses and other malicious software from your computer. Anti-virus software must be regularly updated for the most effective protection.

A security function that reduces the likelihood of fraudulent activity against your business banking account by requiring that two separate users submit to the bank all Automated Clearing House (ACH) originations for processing. Dual control makes it harder for criminals to use keystroke tracking programs to intercept your user name and password an [..]

Can limit unauthorized access to your home or work computer. It is a software or hardware device that limits access to a website, network or computer. Inexpensive personal firewalls for home or business use are recommended.

The most dangerous threat to user privacy -- a computer program that logs each keystroke a user types on a keyboard, saves this data into a file, or transfers it via the Internet to a pre-determined remote host. It also can capture screenshots of user activity, login passwords, record online chat conversations or take different actions in order to [..]

Typically installed without your knowledge by clicking a button on a pop-up window or visiting a malicious website. Malware (malicious software) is intentionally introduced into a computer system to cause harm or loss to the computer system or its data, or to create a platform to attack other computers. It can change system parameters, install addi [..]

An update to computer software or a web browser. Can fix bugs, add new features or close computer security holes. Software vendors regularly release browser or operating system security patches. To ensure your system’s security, undertake periodic system maintenance.

A variation of phishing (see below) in which malicious code is installed on a personal computer or server, misdirecting users to fraudulent websites without their knowledge or consent. Once on the fraudulent site, the user will be asked to submit confidential information and the attackers will capture this information for illegal use.

The practice of sending emails at random that pretend to come from a genuine company operating on the Internet. Phishing (as in fishing for confidential information) emails are an attempt to trick consumers into disclosing personal information at a false websites which may later be used to commit fraud and/or identity theft. Also referred to as “sp [..]

Just like it sounds, the practice of peering over your shoulder to see your PIN or password to gain illegal access to your personal information.