How does an adware generate revenue for its creator?
An adware is a malware created specifically to generate revenue for its developer. It displays online advertisements using pop-ups, web pages, or installation screens.
Once an adware has infected a substantial number of computer systems, it generates revenue through two main methods. First, it earns money by displaying advertisements to users. Second, it uses the "pay per click" mechanism where clients are charged based on the number of clicks on their displayed ads.
Explanation
The textbook clearly explains the revenue generation mechanism of adware in section 12.2.6. The answer covers both methods mentioned: (1) displaying advertisements, and (2) the pay per click mechanism. The context explicitly states that once adware infects systems, it generates revenue by these two methods, charging clients against the number of clicks on their displayed ads.