(Verb) To Download is to access software electronic data to from a remote system via an external medium, such as a Web site or another computer and install it on a system. (Noun) Any electronic file that is available for transfer or has been transferred. When initiated by the user or an authorized third party, such as an administrator, a Download is a legitimate, widely accepted way to install software. Malicious Downloads known as Pop-up Downloads display bogus security warnings or questions that prompt a user to reply. The Pop-up leads the user to believe that the Download in question is just a browser plug-in application needed for enhanced viewing of a Web site, for example. In fact, the reply triggers an unauthorized Download. Pop-up Downloads often install Spyware that tracks users' surfing behavior and reports it back to third parties. Pop-up Downloads also install Adware. Drive-by Downloads install malicious programs on users' hard drives in complete stealth, without displaying any warning. |