What type of malware gathers information about a user without consent and may include keystroke logging?

The type of malware that gathers information about a user without consent, often through methods like keystroke logging, is spyware. Spyware operates discreetly in the background of a system, collecting private data such as login credentials, browsing habits, and personal information without the user's knowledge. This data can be used for malicious purposes, such as identity theft or unauthorized access to sensitive accounts.

In contrast, a virus is a self-replicating program that attaches itself to clean files and spreads throughout a computer system, primarily disrupting operations and causing damage. Adware, while it can track user behavior to serve targeted advertisements, typically does not focus on stealthily collecting sensitive information like spyware does. A Trojan, on the other hand, disguises itself as legitimate software to trick users into executing it; while it may also steal information, its primary purpose is to provide unauthorized access to the system, rather than specifically gathering data without consent in a stealthy manner.

Thus, spyware is distinctly characterized by its intention and method of operation, which centers around covertly collecting user data.