Cyberstudy
PDF p.337 In progress

Spyware and Keyloggers

Open PDF at p.337 12 flashcards

Summary

PDF p.337

Spyware and keyloggers are types of malware designed to monitor and steal information from users. They can track web activity, record keystrokes, and even activate recording devices.

Detailed explanation

PDF p.337
  • Tracking Cookies
    • Definition: Plaintext files used to record web activity.
    • Function: Track IP addresses, search queries, and browser metadata.
    • Creation: Generated by adverts and analytics widgets on websites.
  • Supercookies and Beacons
    • Supercookies: Store tracking data in non-regular ways, such as cache or header requests.
    • Beacons: Single pixel images that collect metadata and perform browser fingerprinting.
  • Adware
    • Function: Reconfigures browser settings, allows tracking cookies, changes search providers, and adds bookmarks.
    • Installation: Can be a program or browser extension/plug-in.
  • Spyware
    • Function: Tracks local application activity, takes screenshots, and activates recording devices.
    • Techniques: Includes DNS redirection to pharming sites.
  • Keyloggers
    • Function: Records keystrokes to steal confidential information like passwords and credit card data.
    • Implementation: Can be software-based or hardware-based (e.g., modified USB adapters, wireless sniffers).

Important terms

taken from the text above
Tracking Cookies
Plaintext files used to record web activity.
Creation
Generated by adverts and analytics widgets on websites.
Supercookies
Store tracking data in non-regular ways, such as cache or header requests.
Beacons
Single pixel images that collect metadata and perform browser fingerprinting.
Installation
Can be a program or browser extension/plug-in.

What I should remember

Key Points PDF p.337
  • Tracking Cookies
    • Plaintext files: Record web activity and metadata.
    • Third-party cookies: Created by adverts and analytics widgets.
  • Supercookies and Beacons
    • Supercookies: Non-regular tracking data storage.
    • Beacons: Invisible images for metadata collection.
  • Adware
    • Browser reconfigurations: Allows tracking, changes settings.
    • Installation: Programs or extensions.
  • Spyware
    • Monitoring: Tracks activity, takes screenshots, activates devices.
    • DNS redirection: To pharming sites.
  • Keyloggers
    • Keystroke recording: Steals passwords and credit card data.
    • Software and hardware: Includes scripts and modified USB adapters.