Grayware

Glossary

What is Grayware?

Grayware is a broad category of computer malware used by hackers and cybercriminals to enter computer systems, including viruses, ransomware, trojans, worms, adware, and spyware.

Grayware, unlike malware, is not always intended to cause harm; rather, it can pose security issues and affect computer performance. Grayware programs operate in the grey area between harmless and hazardous software, with degrees of benignity ranging from completely benign to possibly dangerous, depending on their features.

Grayware blurs the boundary between legal and doubtful, disrupting device operations and posing functional concerns even though it may not be as harmful as malware. Grayware may occasionally be lawful, but because it can compromise security and degrade device performance, it is important to be vigilant and take preventative action to lessen its negative effects on computer systems.

Functions of a Grayware

  1. Adware: Adware functions, which show obtrusive pop-ups and adverts on a user’s device, frequently interfere with their surfing experience and expose them to potentially harmful content, are also included in grayware.
  2. Spyware: In the same way that spyware operates covertly, grayware can gather user data without the user’s knowledge or agreement, including browsing patterns, keystrokes, and personal data.
  3. Browser Hijacking: Grayware can compromise a user’s online security and privacy by taking over web browsers, changing settings, rerouting users to malicious websites, and injecting unsolicited toolbars or plugins.
  4. System Optimisation Tools: In an attempt to trick users into buying premium versions, some grayware poses as system optimisation tools or utilities. Instead of improving device performance, these programs may add needless processes, eat up system resources, and cause false alerts.
  5. Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs): Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), which are not necessarily harmful but could display undesired behaviours like altering search results, altering browser settings, or installing extra software without the user’s express permission, are sometimes considered as a function of a grayware.

Defence Against Grayware Threats

  1. Keep Software Updated: Update your operating system, web browsers, and other software regularly to fix security flaws that could allow grayware to access your computer.
  2. Use Antivirus/Anti-Malware Software: Install and update reliable antivirus or anti-malware software to find and remove grayware and other dangerous threats from your device.
  3. Exercise Caution with Downloads: When downloading and installing software, exercise caution, especially if it comes from an unexpected or untrustworthy source. To reduce the chance of downloading grayware-infected products, only use trustworthy app shops and genuine websites.
  4. Enable Firewall Protection: Set up and activate a firewall on your device to keep an eye on all incoming and outgoing network traffic, block unwanted access, and stop dangerous servers from being contacted by grayware.
  5. Be Wary of Clicking on Suspicious Links: Refrain from clicking on suspicious links or pop-ups that appear in emails, social media posts, or websites, as they could direct you to phishing websites or cause grayware to download to your device.
  6. Implement Browser Security Settings: Set the security settings of your online browser to prevent pop-ups, turn off automatic downloads, and alert you before visiting websites that might be dangerous or harbour grayware.
  7. Use Ad Blockers: Ads and pop-ups can be used to spread grayware, so try to avoid them by installing ad-blocking browser extensions or software.
  8. Regularly Scan Your System: Run routine checks on your device using antivirus or anti-malware software to find and eliminate any potentially dangerous apps or grayware that may have sneaked into your system.

How can iZOOlogic help my Company or Organisation?

Find out how iZOOlogic can protect you against Grayware threats with Financial Malware/Trojan Monitoring solutions.

To find out more about how iZOOlogic can help protect your company’s cyber security, schedule a demo.