Scumware - One of several names for rogue software that can infest websites (also adware, Trojan horses,
malware ...) Scumware is supposed to be all inclusive. I came across this delightful term in
Google Webmaster instructions.
Scumware is any programming or files that get downloaded to your computer from Internet sites without your
consent and usually without your knowledge. The least harmful type of scumware are cookies that are used for not
quite legitimate tracking of your browsing activities. Most scumware does more than that. Typically, the scumare
will download another program when you navigate to an infected site. The next time you boot, the Trojan horse will be
working. It may send spam or virus emails from your address book to all your friends. It may install a
man-in-the-browser that collects your secure identity information and sends it to a crook, who uses it to steal money
from your online bank accounts. Scumware can also enlist your computer in elaborate schemes to bring down Websites by
denial of service attacks.
Scumware can infect perfectly innocent Websites including yours. Every time someone surfs to your site, their
computer will become infected. Search engines will flag your site and may remove or downgrade the listings if they
are infected or put a notice that "This web page may be dangerous to your computer." After your page or site is flagged
in this way, it may take many months to remove the warning, even if the problem is fixed. Scumware can also infect your
site and redirect all visitors to another Web site.
Scumware can also arrive as part of some shareware and freeware packages.
Most anti-virus programs are generally ineffective against the worst forms of scumware, unless they specifically
offer such protection, including Trojan horse removal, root kit removal and adware scanning and removal. Firewalls
can be helpful in stopping scumware. Generally speaking, however, the makers of scumware programs always seem to be
about two steps ahead of security measures.
Ami Isseroff
October 4, 2008
Note - Definitions of Search Engine
Optimization terms are based on inferences from common usage and definitions given by other sources. Conclusions about
search engine behavior are based on understanding of the behavior of the most popular search engines. Both are subject
to error or may change. Search engine company management may define or use a term or set or change any policy in any way
they see fit, and may make these definitions and specifications public or not. These decisions and definitions are
beyond our control. Notice: Copyright
All materials are copyright 2008 by Ami Isseroff. All rights reserved. These pages may not be reproduced in any
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SEO Glossary
