Meanings
nounfoistware (uncountable)
- derogatoryuncountablecomputingSoftware that is installed without the user's knowledge or consent, often bundled with another product.
It is essential to check for spyware/hijackware/foistware.
2004, Sandi - Microsoft MVP, “won't go to typed-in URL”, in microsoft.public.windows.inetexplorer.ie5.browser (Usenet)2 more examples
They can acquire viruses, worms, foistware, and back doors.
2003, William R. Cheswick, Steven M. Bellovin, Aviel D. Rubin, Firewalls and Internet security: repelling the wily hacker, page 241Is it possible to block foistware using Proxomitron or Privoxy filters ?
2003, data64, “What browsers are vulnerable to drive-by download”, in alt.privacy.spyware (Usenet)
Synonyms & antonyms
nounSoftware that is installed without the user's knowledge or consent, often bundled with another product.
Origin
Cite this entry
APA
foistware. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 3, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/foistware
MLA
“foistware.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/foistware. Accessed November 3, 2026.
Chicago
WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “foistware,” accessed November 3, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/foistware.
Source: foistware on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.