What Is Spyware and How To Stop It from Infecting Your Devices 

Key takeaways: 

• Spyware slips in fast and steals your data before you even blink. It tracks your every click and secretly collects your personal data without you knowing. 
• One wrong click lets in fake apps and silent trackers. These threats don’t ask. They just take. 
• Protect your system with tools that block spyware from the start. Shut the door early and keep your data under your control. 

No pop-up. No warning. Just there. 

You download something quick, click something fast, and boom. It’s in. 

Spyware hides in free software, sure. But that’s not the only way in. It bypasses your guard with fake updates, sketchy sites, or even apps that seem harmless. And once it’s there, it watches everything—your clicks, your keystrokes, your personal details. 

You won’t see it coming. But it sees all of you. Here’s what you should know about spyware. 

What is spyware? 

Spyware is a category of malicious software (malware) that monitors a device and collects data without the user’s consent. It can record login credentials, financial details, and browsing history, then transmit that information to third parties for purposes such as targeted advertising or identity theft. While some variants serve legitimate analytics purposes, malicious spyware is designed to exploit private information.  

Here’s what spyware usually does: 

• Hides inside legitimate software or sneaks in with free downloads 
• Runs quietly in the background so you never know it’s there 
• Collects personal data and tracks online behavior 
• Weakens security settings and slows down your system 
• Opens the door for other threats to access your device 

How does spyware work? 

Following activation, spyware acts as an invisible observer, gathering and transmitting data while avoiding detection. The way it entered the device often determines how it hides and the type of information it targets. 

Common entry points for spyware include malicious links, unauthorized app platforms, and bundled software with hidden payloads. In some cases, it arrives via a fake file attachment or hidden script on a malicious website. Once installed, it silently activates and runs in the background without the user’s knowledge, often starting as soon as the operating system loads. 

The moment it’s active, spyware gets to work. It begins collecting sensitive information like passwords, messages, or geolocation. It may log user activity, capture login credentials, or monitor screen content using a hidden system monitor. Some advanced spyware can even weaken security vulnerabilities by disabling antivirus protection and altering system files to avoid detection. 

Types of spyware 

Spyware has a few tricks up its sleeve. Each type plays dirty in its own way. Here are a few variants small business owners should keep an eye on: 

Type	What it does
Keyloggers	Record everything you type, including login credentials and private messages.
Trojans	Disguise themselves as legitimate software or harmless software packages to install spyware.
Adware	Bundled with free software or found on a malicious website. It triggers pop-up ads and tracks user behavior.
Tracking cookies	Monitor your online activity through web browsers, often used for profiling or surveillance.
Rootkits	Bury deep in the operating system to hide spyware and allow long-term access.
System monitors	Track files opened, emails sent, and user’s computer activity.

How to protect against spyware 

Spyware infections are hard to spot, but you can prevent them and protect every computer or mobile device on your network with simple habits and smart software choices. Here’s how: 

• Be selective with downloads 
• Avoid suspicious emails and attachments 
• Use security tools with layered protection 
• Keep everything up to date 
• Use browser privacy features 
• Lock down device access 

Be selective with downloads 

Don’t install random apps or tools from unknown developers. Some spyware hides in installed software pop-ups or downloading software bundled with freebies. 

Avoid suspicious emails and attachments 

Spyware often spreads through file attachments from unknown sources or phishing emails. Watch for shady links and avoid clicking malicious links sent via text or social platforms. 

Use security tools with layered protection 

Choose tools that offer both antivirus and anti-spyware protection Bonus if they scan for malware scan activity in real time. 

Keep everything up to date 

Outdated software packages, browsers, and operating systems are open doors for spyware. Turn on automatic updates to close security vulnerabilities as soon as fixes are released. 

Use browser privacy features 

Modern web browsers include built-in tracking protection. Combine this with anti-tracking extensions to reduce risk from cookies or user activity monitoring. 

Lock down device access 

Require passwords or biometric logins. Even better, set device-level controls to manage software installs, screen access, and permissions. 

Want extra protection? Our SiteLock Security tools scan your website for threats, remove malware, and help block spyware before it causes damage. 

Common signs of spyware infection 

Watch for these red flags that your computer or mobile device may be infected: 

• Device performance suddenly drops. Spyware can overload your desktop or mobile operating system, causing your desktop or laptop computer to lag or freeze. 
• Battery drains faster than usual. This may happen when spyware runs silently in the background on mobile devices. 
• Strange toolbars or apps appear. Spyware often slips in while you’re downloading software or installing free programs. 
• Pop-up ads flood your screen. Unexpected ads, especially when you’re not using your web browser, may signal a hidden malicious link. 
• Data usage surges. Spyware may send your login credentials or other sensitive data to outside servers without your knowledge. 
• New background processes are running. You may notice unknown software in your computer settings or task manager. 
• Antivirus tools stop working. Some spyware disables your anti spyware software, leaving your system exposed. 
• Security alerts start popping up. Your malware scans or system might be fighting off a hidden threat. 

If you notice any of these signs, take immediate steps to remove the spyware and secure your device before more damage is done. 

Spyware attacks across different industries 

Spyware isn’t picky. It goes after individuals, small businesses, big companies, or anyone with a weak spot. Here’s where it causes trouble: 

Industry/Sector	Spyware Risk
Remote work and SMBs	Tracking software. Often bundled with shady pop-ups or install wizards.
Healthcare	Data leaks from infected computers. Patient files and sensitive data are at risk.
Finance	Credential-stealing spyware. May arrive via file attachment or malicious website.
Parents/Consumers	Mobile spyware. Disguised as legitimate software or mobile apps.
Education	Unwanted software. Spyware often gets installed on computers used by students.
Retail & eCommerce	Spyware installs. Can target systems storing login credentials and purchase history.
Public Sector	Virus removal tools. Often outdated, leaving government devices vulnerable.

Worried about spyware risks? Find out how SiteLock can help protect your site. 

Spyware programs vs. other threats 

Spyware isn’t the only threat lurking on your system. Let’s look at how it compares to other digital risks that small businesses face. 

Threat Type	What It Does	Key Risks for SMBs
Spyware	Secretly collects data from your computer or mobile device without your knowledge.	Can leak sensitive information or login credentials to attackers.
Adware	Delivers intrusive ads through pop up ads or bundled with free software.	Slows down systems and disrupts the user experience.
Viruses	Infect programs or files to replicate and spread. May corrupt your operating system.	System crashes, data loss, and business interruptions.
Ransomware	Locks file and demand payment. Unlike spyware, it’s loud and disruptive.	Loss of access to critical data and legal risks.
Trojans	Disguised as legitimate software, but deliver malicious payloads once installed.	Backdoor access for hackers, often unnoticed.

Pro tip: Unlike obvious malware like ransomware, spyware stays hidden. This makes spyware protection harder and underscores the need for strong tools like reputable antivirus software and regular malware scans. 

How to remove spyware 

Getting rid of spyware takes more than a quick scan. Use these proven steps to clean your device and protect your data: 

For desktop or laptop computers: 

1. First, disconnect from the internet. This is a crucial step that keeps the spyware from sending any more of your data to its source. 
2. Open your device settings and carefully review your list of installed programs. If you see anything you don’t recognize or remember installing, it’s a red flag. 
3. Once you’ve identified any suspicious programs, go ahead and uninstall them. Then, do a quick reboot to clear out any lingering processes. 
4. Use a trusted anti-malware tool to run a deep scan of your entire system. This will help you uncover hidden threats that might have been missed. 
5. Use a virus removal tool if needed. Some spyware is harder to remove, so a special virus removal tool can help get rid of stubborn infections. 
6. If the spyware just won’t go away, try booting your computer in Safe Mode. This will run your operating system with only the most essential services. 

For mobile devices: 

1. Go through your list of app in your phone’s settings and get rid of anything you don’t recognize. 
2. Reset your device after backing up your data. This is a strong step, but it’s often the only way to be sure all hidden spyware is gone. 
3. After the reset, do a quick scan again to catch any remaining threats. 
4. Moving forward, download only from official app stores to avoid reinstalling spyware. 

When to seek help: 

• If the infection blocks access to your operating system 
• When you’re dealing with sensitive information like financial or medical data 
• If repeated scans don’t remove the threat, consult a pro with experience handling spyware attacks 

Even experienced users may struggle to remove advanced spyware programs. In those cases, remove spyware completely using professional tools or support. 

Spyware attacks don’t wait. You shouldn’t either. 

Protecting yourself from spyware is a two-pronged effort. First, you need to secure your personal devices. This is the initial step in preventing spyware from getting on your system in the first place. 

The second part of the battle involves being cautious online. When you browse the web, make sure you’re accessing secure websites. If you own a website, you can build trust and protect your visitors’ data by installing an SSL certificate. This encrypts the data exchanged between a user and your website, showing your customers that your site is secure and they can trust you. 

Frequently asked questions