Which statement about spyware and adware is true?

• A. Spyware stores encrypted copies of files.
• B. Adware is a type of spyware.
• C. Spyware reports information to external sources, while adware displays pop-up ads.
• D. Adware never affects system performance.

Answer: (C)

Spyware and adware are both unwanted software, but they have different objectives. Spyware is designed to secretly gather information about a user and send that data to external sources, often without the user knowing. Adware, on the other hand, is focused on delivering advertising, such as pop-up ads or banners, sometimes alongside free software. The statement that spyware reports information to external sources, while adware displays pop-up ads, accurately describes these differing purposes, making it true. The other descriptions don’t fit: spyware isn’t defined by storing encrypted copies of files; adware isn’t inherently a type of spyware, and adware can affect system performance.