Adware
Software that displays unwanted advertising and may also collect tracking data.
Adware is usually low-severity nuisance software, but it lives on a spectrum — aggressive variants bundle tracking spyware or act as droppers for more serious payloads. It typically arrives through deceptive “free” app installers and bundled downloads, which is why scrutinizing install dialogs (declining bundled extras) and using reputable software sources are the front-line defenses.
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