What is spyware commonly used for?

Spyware is a type of malicious software designed to monitor and collect information about a user's activities without their knowledge or consent. It can track various activities, including browsing habits, keystrokes, and personal information such as login credentials and banking details. This tracking is often done for purposes such as advertising, data gathering, or even identity theft.

The focus on tracking user activity is what distinguishes spyware from other types of software. Unlike software that aims to improve performance, enhance network security, or manage data backups, spyware primarily operates in the background, gathering intelligence on user behaviors. Therefore, identifying tracking user activity as its main function provides a clear understanding of what spyware does and its potential risks to user privacy and security.