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

He has called on the UN to make sure the host country agreement - the contract between the UN and the host - contains a clause banning the use of spyware against attendees – which he says was a concern at previous conferences.

From BBC

The doctor had installed spyware on his mother's computer years earlier to track her finances.

From BBC

Deb Radcliffe, cybersecurity author, noted, "Education is a two-way street. Begin by learning what your kids do online through open discussions rather than spyware. Keep communication open, and share personal, relatable experiences and lessons with them. If they get into trouble, cultivate a safe place to share with you or their educators or even police if it comes to that — somewhere where they feel safe talking without judgment or retaliation."

From Salon

He had also installed spyware on his mother's computer so he could monitor the couple's activity and watch them through the in-built camera, Mr Makepeace said.

From BBC

That attack came days after the mass detonation of the hand-held communication devices that Hezbollah relied on to evade Israeli spyware.

From Los Angeles Times