Difference between Spyware, Malware, and a Virus?
Posted by Javeed Abdul on January 27, 2010 under Tools, Windows | 
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There are distinct classifications for rogue software: all of which cause harm to your PC in some way or another.
The terms spyware and malware generally refer to software that purposely exploits your PC and/or steals personal information: all for the sole purpose of making money. Sometimes, spyware is referred to as adware because it can serve ads (repeatedly and obtrusively) to your PC.
On the other hand, viruses usually cause harm to the PC and are most noted because they can spread infection to other computers easily: hence, a “viral infection.” The major difference between a virus and a spyware infection is that viruses don’t usually exploit a PC for profit.