Surveillance programs have the equivalent capabilities as spyware. All the same, there are a trio of distinctive components that differentiate the two types of programs. These differences are informed consent, computer ownership and parental stewardship. In other words, the user has given permission to install the program and is aware the program has been installed.
In order to install a surveillance program, one must be the owner of the machine or get the permission from each the users of the monitored computer. When carrying out the permission, a well-prepared signed written document that distinctly outlines and identifies the machine surveillance method isn’t a bad idea.
Parents are able to legally install a surveillance application upon their minor child’s machine. However, covert computer surveillance of a child above the age of 18 is indeed illegal. Should a parent elect to install the software on an adult child’s computer, they must provide proof of ownership of the machine in question, or recieve consent from the owner of the machine.