Junkware A New Name for Spyware

Short Description
The name “spyware” was first used to describe unwanted commercial software … words, the term “spyware” became a loose, broad term used by consumers for a …

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Content
“Junkware”: A New Name for “Spyware”
by Eric L. Howes
The name “spyware” was first used to describe unwanted commercial software during the spring
and summer of 2000, when consumers became aware of “adware” — advertising sponsored
“freeware” — which often monitors system use and reports potentially sensitive data to
advertisers for the purpose of targeted advertising. The name “spyware” proved to be a catchy
one, and consumers were soon using it to describe or name all manner of unwanted software that
engaged in unwelcome behavior — even software that did not technically “spy” on users. In other
words, the term “spyware” became a loose, broad term used by consumers for a wide variety of
unwanted, intrusive software that they understandably and rightfully deplore.
Although the name “spyware” has proved popular with internet users, it has caused more than its
share of confusion because the term implies functionality (data gathering, backdoor connectivity,
etc.) that some intrusive, unwanted software may not have. Not only have vendors of certain
kinds of “advertising software” vociferously protested the application of the name “spyware” to
their software, the name “spyware” has also…