A small program that gets installed on a computer while browsing the Internet. The basic function of active content is to provide an interactive Internet experience through videos and toolbars. Sometimes, active content is used to gain unauthorized access to a computer, and then damage the data stored on it or install malicious software on it.

The act or instance of making a duplicate copy of a program, a disk, or data. The duplicate copy is called a backup.

Temporary memory on your computer that is sometimes used to store local copies of files opened when you browse the Internet.

Keeping a user’s data, including personal files and e-mail messages, such that the data is not accessible by anyone without appropriate permission

A method of protecting the rights of an originator of a creative work, such as text, piece of music, painting, or computer program, through law.

The process of reconverting the encrypted data into a readable and usable form.

A filter that blocks unreliable and unauthorized information from the Internet before it reaches your computer or a private network. It provides additional protection against threats such as hackers and viruses. A firewall also helps to ensure computer privacy by restricting external access by any unauthorized user.

A person who uses computer expertise to gain unauthorized access to a computer, and then misuses or tampers the programs and data stored on the computer.

Any information available on the Internet is an intellectual property, which is legally owned by the person who created it. The owner of an intellectual property has the exclusive rights to control the use of this information.

An individual who develops contact with Internet users, through chat rooms, online forums, or e-mail, to exploit them financially or involve them in dangerous relationships.

A unique string of characters that a user types in as an identification code. It is a security measure used to restrict access to computer systems and sensitive files.

The act of extracting personal information, such as passwords and credit card details, from computer users and then use the information for malicious purposes.

The act of copying someone’s work and using it as if it is your own work, without mentioning the source.

An Internet security protocol that ensures secure data communication by encrypting the information transmitted. The SSL protocol certifies that a Web site is genuine and ensures that the data provided to the site is not misused.

Unauthorized copying of copyrighted software without obtaining the license or permission of its copyright owner is software piracy.

A computer program that is installed on your computer without your knowledge. Spyware can secretly send out information about your Web browsing habits or other personal details to another computer through the network.

A destructive computer program disguised as a game, utility, or software. When run, a Trojan horse does something harmful to the computer system while appearing to do something useful.

A computer program that is designed to cause malfunctioning of a computer or damage the data stored on the computer.