There are countless forms of malware, and in many cases, it’s easy to recognize that something’s amiss. But some types of malware, such as spyware, can inflict serious damage while going completely unnoticed. Here’s what website owners need to know about spyware and how to prevent it.
Spyware is a type of malware that collects bits of data and tracks your online actions without your knowledge. Most commonly, this type of spyware aims to record your internet usage data and collect sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers.
A rootkit is a type of malware that collects bits of data that affects a hosting server or website. Rootkits give unauthorized users access to your website and allow them to take it over. They are notoriously difficult to detect, which means they often inflict harmful ongoing damage.
Card sniffers are spyware that cybercriminals embed in the shopping cart pages of websites. When online shoppers attempt to check out, these card sniffers intercept their credit card information and can send it into the hands of cybercriminals.
Another type of malware that collects your data is a keylogger, which records every keystroke you make. This means keyloggers can record any sensitive information you type, including bank account numbers and login credentials. Although keyloggers aren’t website-based attacks, it’s possible to download them accidentally by visiting an infected domain or clicking on a malicious link.
Website malware that collects your data can have serious consequences for website owners. If spyware infiltrates your website or shopping cart pages, it can target your visitors and steal their sensitive information. If this happens, they’re unlikely to return to your website, which can cost you revenue and seriously damage your reputation.
Fortunately, there are cybersecurity solutions to protect your website from spyware. To know which solution is best for your website, you need to understand your site’s chances of being compromised and your current security needs.
SiteLock’s Risk Score Scan evaluates your website’s risk of compromise, and provides high-level data on the overall health of your site. Contact us to discuss to a free scan and uncover your site’s risk score today.