Spyware
Spyware is any software that covertly gathers user
information through the user's Internet connection
without his or her knowledge, usually for advertising
purposes. Spyware applications are typically bundled
as a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs
that can be downloaded from the Internet; however,
it should be noted that the majority of shareware
and freeware applications do not come with spyware.
Once installed, the spyware monitors user activity
on the Internet and transmits that information in
the background to someone else. Spyware can also gather
information about e-mail addresses and even passwords
and credit card numbers.