Rogue programs known as “spyware” hijacked Web browsers and crippled computers.
Computer worms raced around the world, leaving behind tools that spread spam. Scammers sent e-mail to trick bank account holders into revealing passwords. Rogue programs known as “spyware” hijacked Web browsers and crippled computers. These were among the top Internet threats of 2004 as the perpetrators grew smarter and more sophisticated, driven more than ever by economic gains.