Glossary of Internet jargon

This is a list of common terms you will come across on this website:

• Firewall
• Keylogging
• Phishing
• Rogue dialler
• Spam
• Spyware
• Trojan
• Virus

Firewall

Software to protect computers against hackers.

Keylogging

Software/hardware to track keystrokes on a computer to gather passwords, credit card numbers etc.

Phishing

Fraudulent e-mails and pop-ups to fool you into revealing personal information for criminal gain. The most common phishing scam is one used to con people into handing over bank account details online.

Rogue dialler

Software that installs itself on computers and changes settings to dial a premium rate number instead of usual dial-up account.

Spam

Unsolicited e-mails, often offering products or services in which you have no interest.

Spyware

Small programmes that secretly monitor sites visited, potentially violating privacy and slowing computers.

Trojan

Malicious software disguised as harmless programme. One of the most common net security threats, it hides in the background and can trigger programmes to run that steal personal information or details stored on that computer for instance.

Virus

Malicious programme designed to damage data; usually spread via infested e-mail attachments.