Malware
Software that fulfills the deliberately harmful intent of an attacker when run.
A catch-all term for software installed by stealth onto a PC for malevolent purposes (hence the name). These may include displaying unwanted ads (adware), installing software you didn’t ask for, or spying on your activities (spyware) and reporting them back to the culprit so that he can steal your bank account, address book etc.
Software created and distributed for malicious purposes, such as invading computer systems in the form of viruses, worms, or innocent-seeming plug-ins and extensions that mask other destructive capabilities.
⠀ Dictionary of Computer and Internet Terms (Vol. 1) John C. Rigdon, 2016 – 1471 c. – 738