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Spambots are software programs used to send automated unwanted messages, including email, chat rooms, forums, and text message inboxes. They can be used to harvest email addresses, send spam, or post spam on message boards. Spambots can also pose a threat to account security by distributing phishing messages or virus-laden code. Means of dealing with spambots include spam-fighting programs, message blocking features, and user blocking features. Bots can also be used for beneficial purposes, such as answering customer service questions.
A spambot is a software program used to assist in spamming. On the Internet, spam is any type of automated unwanted message. Spam is often used to advertise, but it can also be used to harass users or disrupt service. A spambot program can be used to harvest email addresses for spamming, to send spam, or to post spam on a message board. Less frequently, a spambot can also refer to a program that filters spam.
While most people get spam through email, spambots also send or post unwanted messages in chat rooms, forums, or text message inboxes on cell phones. Cell phone users are particularly affected by short text messaging (SMS) service spambots because many users have mobile plans that charge them for receiving such text messages. In some cases, spambots can pose a threat to your account security. A maliciously used spambot can distribute phishing messages or virus-laden code that can infect computers and breach the security of the data they contain.
Phishing is an email message sent with the intent of acquiring secret information such as user login or financial information. These types of messages usually masquerade as legitimate messages that the person may already be doing business with. Phishing spambot messages are designed to credibly mimic messages from a real company to trick the user into entering sensitive information. The consequences of falling for a phishing attack can be serious and can include the theft of money from any financial assets linked to the phishing account.
Means of dealing with spambots include spam-fighting programs, message blocking features, and user blocking features. Spam blockers are implemented automatically by most email service providers. By automatically blocking messages sent by spambots, an email provider can protect users from a variety of viruses and phishing attempts that can put sensitive user information at risk.
A bot is a program that performs tasks automatically and is often used online. While bots are often used to facilitate spam, a good bot can also help users perform tasks such as downloading files and accessing customer service guides. Some bots are designed to respond conversationally to text chat entered by a human user. This type of beneficial bot is commonly used to answer simple customer service questions asked by users on a website. By providing a bot that answers frequently asked questions, a business can reduce labor costs resulting from customer service calls and prevent lost sales due to customer confusion.
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