Rule:--Sid:5978--Summary:This event is generated when activity relating to a spyware application is detected. --Impact:Unkown. Possible information disclosure, violation of privacy, possible violation of policy.--Detailed Information:Spyware is malicious software running on a host that may intercept or take information from the host system without a users consent or knowledge. Spyware is also capable of using a hosts Internet connection without the knowlege or consent of the user, in order to deliver that information to an unauthorized third party. This software not only uses available bandwidth on a network connection but also consumes system resources to the point of making the host unusable in some cases.Spyware can be classified into multiple categories depending on the behavior of the software.In particular, this event indicates that the software detected is a hijacker. Hijacker programs take control of browser settings and are able to redirect information intended for one web site to another without the consent and knowledge of the user.--Affected Systems:Windows operating system. All versions.--Attack Scenarios:Spyware is often installed as a byproduct of the installation of another piece of software without the users knowledge. It may also be installed without the users consent via a vulnerability in software on the host machine, for example, by visiting a malicious website that utilizes a vulnerability in a browser application to install the spyware.--Ease of Attack:Simple. This is spyware activity.--False Positives:None known.--False Negatives:None known.--Corrective Action:Disallow the installation of software by unprivileged users.Make use of anti-spyware products to remove the spyware from the affected system.--Contributors:Sourcefire Vulnerability Research Team--Additional References--