Trackware
What is Trackware?
TrackwareSoftware that monitors and reports on user activity — sites visited, apps used, keystrokes, or location — typically for advertising, analytics, or stalking.
Trackware sits at the border between aggressive analytics and spyware. It silently collects detailed information about user behaviour (browsing history, app usage, search queries, location, contacts, sometimes keystrokes) and sends it to a third party. While some trackware ships as part of free apps with vague consent, other variants — often called stalkerware — are intentionally hidden by an abuser to monitor a partner or family member. Distribution channels include bundled installers, mobile apps, and grey-market "parental control" products. Defences include reviewing app permissions, mobile threat defence, removing unfamiliar device-admin apps, and providing safety procedures for victims of intimate-partner abuse.
● Examples
- 01
Mobile apps with hidden trackers that collect GPS and SMS metadata.
- 02
"Phone monitoring" products marketed for parental use but commonly abused for stalking.
● Frequently asked questions
What is Trackware?
Software that monitors and reports on user activity — sites visited, apps used, keystrokes, or location — typically for advertising, analytics, or stalking. It belongs to the Malware category of cybersecurity.
What does Trackware mean?
Software that monitors and reports on user activity — sites visited, apps used, keystrokes, or location — typically for advertising, analytics, or stalking.
How do you defend against Trackware?
Defences for Trackware typically combine technical controls and operational practices, as detailed in the full definition above.
What are other names for Trackware?
Common alternative names include: Tracking software, Stalkerware.