The term spyware is often thought to exclusively define a program that monitors a computer user when, in fact, it’s actions are much broader. Spyware is defined as a software that not only monitors a user, but does so for the benefit of a third party. These types of programs can track a user’s internet activity for the purpose of determining which websites they visit before sending the results to an advertisement agency. The more concerning spyware programs will attempt to record what the computer user types, such as passwords, account numbers and other private information, and may attempt to record the information. The main difference between spyware and a regular computer virus is that it does not duplicate itself as a worm or traditional virus may do.

Adware, which is a software program that is designed for commercial gain, is fittingly titled as a program that automatically displays or downloads advertisements to a computer. Generally bundled into a program, adware is considered a way for many developers to recover programming and developing costs. Because much of the internet’s software is either made available at little or no costs, software developers often incorporate adware into their programs in hopes of replacing some of the income that they lose in the low pricing of their products.Adware and spyware are often one in the same because the computer user’s internet activity is often tracked, recorded and may even be sold to a third party without either the knowledge or consent of the individual being monitored. Many software creators content that adware is not spyware because they clearly indicate their intention to collect and record specific data in conjunction with the software’s use. Therefore, developers believe that adware cannot be the same as spyware because users are aware that they may be monitored.