Arm yourself with knowledge on the different viruses and types of fraud used by criminals. Read our glossary of terms.
Spyware (sometimes called adware, snoopware or sneakware) is software that secretly gathers information about a user and relays it to another party over the internet.
At its mildest, spyware is a simple tool used by advertisers to track users' web-surfing preferences. At its worst, spyware is used to monitor keystrokes, scan files, reconfigure web browsers, scan emails and gather confidential data such as passwords.
In many cases, users unknowingly install spyware when they download freeware or shareware. In other instances, spyware programs are automatically installed when a user views email or visits a certain web page.
You can tell if you have spyware on your computer by downloading and running a specialist program designed to identify and remove such threats. Like an anti-virus program, it needs to be regularly updated in order to recognise the latest risks. If you detect spyware, and are unsure how to remove it, you should contact your local computer store.
View a list of security software providers and consider your choices.
Westpac is committed to your online security and peace of mind. However, you can play an important part in safeguarding your information online. We strongly recommend you do not allow spyware applications on your PC. Not only can spyware compromise your online security but it can also contravene Westpac's Internet banking conditions of use.
General advice on this website has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on the advice, consider its appropriateness. Consider our disclosure documents, which include Product Disclosure Statements (PDS) for some products. The PDS is relevant when deciding whether to acquire or hold a product. View our Australian Prudential Regulation Authority Registrable Superannuation Entity (RSE) Licence & Registration numbers.
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