Adware
Adware is a type of software that displays unwanted advertisements on a device or platform, often without the user's explicit consent.
Key Concepts
Adware can be classified into several categories based on its behavior and characteristics:
- Display adware: Displays advertisements on a device or platform, often without the user's explicit consent.
- Redirect adware: Redirects users to websites or platforms that display unwanted ads or malware.
- Clickjacking adware: Traps users into clicking on unwanted links or ads, often to generate revenue from malicious websites.
Technical Details
Adware can be installed on a device through various means, including:
- Free and low-cost apps that bundle unwanted ads or malware.
- Malicious websites that download adware onto devices.
- Infected software updates or downloads.
Adware can also be categorized based on its delivery mechanism:
- Push adware: Sends unwanted ads to users without their consent.
- Pull adware: Allows users to opt-in to receive targeted ads.
Statistics and Data
The prevalence of adware varies depending on the source and methodology used. According to a report by Norton, in 2020:
- 1 in 5 mobile apps contained adware.
- 72% of Android users had installed an app with adware at some point.
A study by Symantec found that the global adware market reached $12.6 billion in 2020, with a projected growth rate of 25% per annum from 2021 to 2027.
Applications/Uses
Adware is used in various contexts:
- Free and low-cost apps: Many apps offer free versions or trials that bundle unwanted ads or malware.
- Malicious websites: Websites that use adware to generate revenue from unsuspecting users.
- Spam and phishing campaigns: Adware can be used to spread spam or phishing emails and scams.
Impact/Significance
Adware has significant implications for user experience, digital security, and the economy:
- User experience: Adware can cause frustration, annoyance, and financial loss for users.
- Digital security: Adware can compromise user data, increase malware infections, and create vulnerabilities in devices.
- Economic impact: The global adware market is projected to reach $19.6 billion by 2027, with significant revenue generated from targeted advertising.
Related Topics
Adware is related to various topics, including:
- Malware and ransomware: Adware can be used in conjunction with malware and ransomware attacks.
- Internet of Things (IoT): Adware can target IoT devices, compromising user data and security.
- Cybersecurity: Adware is a significant threat to cybersecurity, requiring robust protection measures.
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