What does the term "spam" refer to in digital communication?

The term "spam" in digital communication specifically refers to unsolicited commercial e-mail. This type of communication is typically sent in bulk to numerous recipients without their consent, often promoting products, services, or other messages that the recipients have little interest in. Spam e-mails can clutter inboxes and may pose security risks, such as phishing attempts or malware distribution. Identifying spam helps users manage their communications effectively and avoid unwanted content.

In contrast, targeted advertisements are usually a form of marketing directed at specific users based on their preferences and behaviors, rather than being unsolicited. Encrypted messages refer to communication that is secured to prevent unauthorized access, while data breaches involve the unauthorized access and retrieval of sensitive information, which are all distinct from the definition of spam.