Spyware

Table of contents

1 English 1.1 Etymology 1.2 Noun 1.3 Related terms 1.4 See also

English

Etymology

From spy + ware a contraction of software

Noun

spyware

1. A program that monitors the actions of a computer, and transmits this data via the Internet. Spyware is distributed by being bundled with programs that users are likely to download, and it is then installed without the user knowing. The term spyware overlaps with adware, although spyware is considered to be more unethical .

Related terms

• abandonware
• baitware
• crippleware
• demoware
• donationware
• freeware
• malware
• postcardware
• shareware
• trialware

See also

• free software
• open-source software
• public domain software