Which type of malware is specifically designed to steal personal information?

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Spyware is specifically designed to covertly gather personal information from an individual's device without their knowledge or consent. It operates silently in the background, capturing data such as login credentials, browsing habits, and sometimes even sensitive information like financial details or social security numbers. Unlike other malware types, its primary objective is information theft rather than disrupting functionality or demanding ransom.

Adware, while intrusive in its display of advertisements, primarily affects the user experience rather than focusing on personal data theft. Ransomware aims to encrypt files and demand a payment for their release, which again contrasts with the intent of spyware. Viruses usually spread by attaching themselves to other programs and do not have a specific focus on personal information theft. Thus, among the options presented, spyware is uniquely equipped for the role of stealing personal information efficiently and discreetly.