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Spyware

Spyware is malware that secretly monitors user activity and collects sensitive information without consent.

What is spyware?How it typically works?Common techniques & variantsImpactFurther reading

What is spyware?

Spyware runs stealthily in the background of infected systems, tracking keystrokes, browsing activity, or communications. It is often bundled with Trojans or delivered through malicious downloads. Unlike adware, spyware is explicitly designed for surveillance and theft of sensitive data. Famous cases include **Pegasus**, used for state-level surveillance, and **FinFisher**, a commercial spyware tool marketed for law enforcement but abused by threat actors.

How it typically works?

  1. Infection: spyware is delivered through malicious attachments, Trojans, or software bundles.
  2. Installation: it hides within legitimate processes or system components.
  3. Monitoring: the spyware logs keystrokes, captures screenshots, or collects browsing data.
  4. Exfiltration: stolen information is sent to attacker-controlled servers.

Common techniques & variants

  • Keyloggers: record everything typed on a keyboard.
  • Commercial spyware: marketed to governments or companies, examples include Pegasus and FinFisher.
  • Stalkerware: spyware used in domestic abuse contexts, often installed on mobile devices.
  • Trojan spyware: spyware functionality delivered via Trojans like DarkComet.
  • Network spyware: monitors internet traffic to intercept sensitive data.

Impact

Spyware threatens both individual privacy and organizational security. It can capture credentials, financial details, or intellectual property without users noticing. Campaigns involving Pegasus showed how spyware could target journalists, activists, and government officials on a global scale. For enterprises, spyware infections may lead to regulatory consequences, reputational harm, and long-term data exposure. SecOps teams must monitor endpoints closely to identify subtle spyware behaviors.

Further reading

Related topics

MalwareTrojansWormsRansomwareFileless Malware