What is spyware and how do I remove it?

[Herran]

What is Spyware?
Spyware refers to software secretly installed on your machine with malicious intent such as stealing private information, credit card details, browsing history, and more data points. It’s designed to be discreet – you probably won’t know that it’s operating in the background as it has minimal impact on system resources.
Keyloggers
As the name suggests, keyloggers track your keyboard strokes and aim to detect things like passwords, financial details, or even just to keep tabs on your internet usage. Employers can use them to keep an eye on employee habits while hackers use them for more nefarious purposes.
Adware
Pleased about that shady free software you just downloaded online? There’s a high chance it might spring a nasty surprise in the form of malicious adware.
When did Spyware first appear?
The earliest references to spyware is widely believed to have originated in Usenet discussions in the mid-90s. But it was only in the early 2000s that spyware became synonymous with venomous software as it caught the attention of cybersecurity firms who recognized it as a real threat.

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