spyware
Definition
Noun: 1. Malicious software designed to gather information covertly: Spyware is a type of computer software that secretly collects data about a user's activities, online behavior, or personal information without the user's knowledge or consent. Its primary function is surveillance and data theft.
Usage
Spyware is typically used as a non-count noun. It refers to the general category or concept of such software. - Example: The IT department warned employees about the dangers of spyware. - Example: Installing that free program might come bundled with spyware.
Examples
- Noun:
- The antivirus program detected and removed several pieces of spyware from my laptop.
- Spyware can track your keystrokes to steal passwords and credit card numbers.
- Legislation aims to crack down on companies that use spyware to monitor users.
Advanced Usage
- "To be infected with spyware": Describes a computer or system that has spyware installed on it.
- His computer was running slowly because it was infected with spyware.
- "Spyware removal": Refers to the process or tools used to delete spyware.
- She used a reputable tool for spyware removal.
Variants and Related Words
- Adware (noun): Software that automatically displays or downloads advertising material. While often annoying, adware is sometimes distinguished from spyware, though they can overlap.
- Malware (noun): A broader term for malicious software, which includes spyware, viruses, and ransomware.
- Tracker (noun): A specific component, often within spyware or other software, designed to monitor user activity.
Synonyms
- Surveillance software
- Monitoring software
- Snoopware (less common)
Related Phrases
- Spyware program: A specific instance or piece of spyware software.
- That download installed a spyware program on my machine.
- Anti-spyware: Software designed to detect and remove spyware.
- You should run an anti-spyware scan regularly.
Noun
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computer software that obtains information from a user's computer without the user's knowledge or consent
