spyware

[spahy-wair]

noun

1. Computers.,  software that is installed surreptitiously and gathers information about an internet user's browsing habits, intercepts the user's personal data, etc., transmitting this information to a third party.

   a parent's use of spyware to monitor a child's online activities.

2. tools that are used to conduct espionage.

   sophisticated spyware that rivals that of the CIA.

spyware

/ ˈspaɪˌwɛə /

noun

1. computing software installed via the internet on a computer without the user's knowledge and used to send information about the user to another computer

Word History and Origins

Origin of spyware¹

First recorded in 1980–85; spy + -ware

Example Sentences

This has all led to concerns, in some quarters, that cars could be hacked and used to harbour spyware, monitor individuals or even be immobilised at the touch of a keyboard.

From BBC

Adams also contacted Ms Ridley on her personal email, wrote about her having "spyware" at his home and said they were going to get married in Australia.

From BBC

It is the first time a developer of spyware has been held responsible for exploiting the weaknesses in smartphone platforms.

From BBC

TikTok, one particularly problematic Chinese export, is mental fentanyl designed to addict the Western masses and dupe them into poisonous ideologies — and Communist Party spyware, to boot.

From Los Angeles Times

Beyond concerns about losing autonomy through the use of proprietary software, there’s another obvious issue: Surveillance software and spyware have been used to enable targeted killings throughout the war.

From Salon