Final answer:
Spyware is used to monitor and gather information without the user's knowledge.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of spyware is to monitor and gather information without the user's knowledge. It is a type of malicious software that covertly collects personal information, such as passwords, browsing habits, and keystrokes, and sends it to a third party. Spyware can be installed on a computer through various means, such as clicking on malicious links or downloading infected files.