spyware Software that collects personal information about users and their activities without their knowledge or consent. Spyware uses a number of techniques such as logging keystrokes, recording Internet Web browsing activities, and searching hard drives.Adware is a type of spyware that records such information and forwards it to an advertising agency or market research firm that later uses it to tailor pop-up ads for delivery to users without their knowledge or consent. See also malware. |