: software that is installed in a computer or mobile device without the user's knowledge and that transmits information about the user's activities
Jan should scan her computer for viruses, worms, and spyware …—
Kenneth Baldauf and Ralph Stair
Kenneth Baldauf and Ralph StairSmartphones belonging to more than three dozen journalists, human rights activists, and business executives have been infected with powerful spyware that an Israeli firm sells, purportedly to catch terrorists and criminals, The Washington Post and other publications reported.—Dan Goodin
Dan GoodinExamples of spyware in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The company also noted that iPhones that activate Lockdown Mode, which can protect users from spyware threats, can also block DarkSword.
—Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026
This is another setback for the right-wing politician, who is already facing charges of embezzling millions and authorizing the purchase of spyware that was allegedly used to hack the phones of political opponents.
—Marta Balaga, Variety, 19 Mar. 2026
The discovery marks the second time this month that researchers have found spyware targeting iPhones and other Apple devices.
—Aj Vicens, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026
Court filings reviewed by The Enquirer detail allegations of digital manipulation, spyware, blackmail and intimidation that investigators say Snow used to keep victims quiet for years.
—Cheryl Vari, Cincinnati Enquirer, 3 Mar. 2026
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Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026
This is another setback for the right-wing politician, who is already facing charges of embezzling millions and authorizing the purchase of spyware that was allegedly used to hack the phones of political opponents.
—Marta Balaga, Variety, 19 Mar. 2026
The discovery marks the second time this month that researchers have found spyware targeting iPhones and other Apple devices.
—Aj Vicens, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026
Court filings reviewed by The Enquirer detail allegations of digital manipulation, spyware, blackmail and intimidation that investigators say Snow used to keep victims quiet for years.
—Cheryl Vari, Cincinnati Enquirer, 3 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for spyware
Cite this Entry
“Spyware.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spyware. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
spyware
noun
spy·ware
ˈspī-ˌwer 
: software that is installed in a computer or mobile device without the user's knowledge and that transmits information about the user's activities
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