Spyware is classified as what type of malware?

Spyware is classified as unwanted programs because it typically operates without the user’s consent or knowledge, gathering personal information and monitoring user activities. Unlike other types of malware, such as ransomware, which encrypts files to demand payment, or adware, which displays unsolicited advertisements, spyware primarily focuses on collecting data for a malicious purpose.

Although spyware can sometimes be bundled with other unwanted applications, its fundamental characteristic is its covert operation aimed at information gathering, making it part of the broader category of unwanted programs. Trojans, on the other hand, disguise themselves as legitimate software to facilitate further attacks but do not inherently focus on surveillance or data collection as spyware does. This distinction highlights why spyware fits best under the classification of unwanted programs.