computer software that obtains information from a user's computer without the user's knowledge or consent
"The antivirus program detected and removed the spyware that had been secretly logging my keystrokes every time I typed."
Programs that surreptitiously monitor and report the actions of a computer user.
"The antivirus scan revealed that spyware had been secretly logging every keystroke he typed on his laptop."
In plain English: Spyware is secret software that quietly watches what you do on your computer and sends that information to someone else without your permission.
"The new computer program was removed because security experts detected spyware stealing personal data."
Usage: Spyware refers to malicious software installed without consent, often bundled with legitimate programs or downloaded from unsafe websites. Unlike viruses that destroy data, spyware specifically focuses on secretly collecting personal information like passwords and browsing habits for theft by attackers.
The word spyware combines the root words spy and ware to describe software that secretly monitors a user's computer activities. It was coined by merging these two concepts to highlight the hidden surveillance nature of such programs.