Definitions:

• Malware:    A program that performs malicious actions.


• Trojan Horse:    A malware that performs unexpected or unauthorized actions.


• BackDoor Trojan:   A malware that opens up a computer for remote access by other users.


• Virus:   Viruses replicate (infect) other files by four methods:
        A. Append
        B. Insert
        C. Overwrite          
        D. Prepend                A        B        C        D


• Worm:   Worms spread functional copies of themselves:
        A. via E-mail (E-mail Worms)
        B. via P2P (P2P Worms)
        C. via IRC (IRC Worms)
        D. via Network (Network Worms)


• Spyware:     A software application that monitors a user’s computing habits and personal information, and sends this information to third parties without the user’s authorization or knowledge.
        This include key loggers, event loggers, cookies, screen captors, a.s.o., or a combination of all of the program mentioned above.
        Impact of these programs is system slowdown, system instability, and computer crashes. It can also:

  • Track the sites you visit
  • Monitor keystrokes
  • Scan and read cookies
  • Relay information to a third party
  • Bombard you with Pop-ups
  • Change browser settings
  • Create unwanted icons and links on your desktop

• Grayware:   These are Potentially Unwanted Programs. Grayware exists as a quasi-legal form of malware, because it is either purchased for use by corporations, or written by programmers paid by the corporation. Supposedly, graywares' aims are altruistic, merely aiding the corporations' marketing efforts. Grayware includes adware and spyware that are, supposedly, non-malicious in nature.

1. Block spyware before it enters your network.
2. Prevent spyware from installing on the client.
3. Block “phone home” attempts at the gateway.
4. Provide multiple cleanup options.