What is the primary purpose of spyware?

Study for the Western Governors University (WGU) ITEC2002 D322 Introduction to IT Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Be fully prepared for your exam!

The primary purpose of spyware is to collect confidential information. Spyware is a type of malicious software that secretly monitors user activity and gathers sensitive data without the user's consent or knowledge. This information may include personal details, login credentials, credit card numbers, browsing habits, and other private data, which can then be transmitted to third parties for malicious purposes such as identity theft or unauthorized data sales.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the nature of spyware. Assisting in system repairs refers to legitimate maintenance tasks, enhancing system performance involves optimizing system resources, and blocking unwanted emails relates to spam filtering. None of these functions are inherent to spyware, which is designed specifically to invade privacy and extract confidential information.

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