(also computer surveillance software)
Software that tracks user, app, and network activity on a system. Monitoring software covers a broad range of tools, including standalone apps installed by the supervisor and features bundled with other cybersecurity software. Monitoring software can capture a variety of data, such as traffic in and out of the system, user actions, and application processes. This data is reported to the administrator, alerting them to any violations resulting from unexpected behavior.
Some organizations employ monitoring software to keep tabs on employee productivity. Constant surveillance at work violates employee privacy, leading to these measures being dubbed “bossware” or “tattleware.”