Spyware

Spyware is a type of malware ✕ Malware (from "malicious software") is the umbrella term for any harmful software — viruses, trojans, ransomware, spyware — that damages, spies on, or hijacks devices. More in the glossary → that nests on a device unnoticed and spies on information: keystrokes, passwords, visited sites, even camera and microphone recordings. The collected data is sent to third parties and abused for identity theft, fraud, or advertising. Spyware often comes bundled with seemingly harmless software or through tampered downloads. You're protected by a good antivirus ✕ An antivirus is a program that detects, blocks and removes malicious software. Modern ones combine known signatures with behavior analysis. More in the glossary → , caution when installing, and regular updates. More in the best antivirus comparison.