spyware

noun
UK: /ˈspaɪweə(r)/
US: /ˈspaɪwer/

  1. Software that secretly collects information about your computer activity and sends it to someone else.

    1. My computer slowed down because of spyware.
    2. The security software detected and removed the spyware program before it could cause any damage.

  2. A type of malware that is installed on a computer without the user's knowledge to gather their personal information.

    1. Be careful about clicking links, they can install spyware.
    2. The company was accused of using spyware to monitor its competitors' online activities and gain an unfair advantage.

Synonyms

malware adware

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "spyware" in English means: Software that secretly collects information about your computer activity and sends it to someone else., A type of malware that is installed on a computer without the user's knowledge to gather their personal information..

The phonetic transcription of "spyware" is /ˈspaɪweə(r)/ in British English and /ˈspaɪwer/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "spyware": malware, adware.

Example usage of "spyware": "My computer slowed down because of spyware.". More examples on the page.