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 Predator spyware, which is marketed by the Athens-based Israeli company Intellexa, can get access to a device's messages, camera, and microphone – turning a person's phone against them.

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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.

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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.

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

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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.

Read more on Los Angeles Times