Which type of threat is characterized by individuals hacking into systems to collect information for personal gain?

The option indicating black hat hackers accurately describes individuals who engage in illegal activities, hacking into systems with the primary intention of collecting information for personal gain. Black hat hackers operate outside of ethical standards and often exploit vulnerabilities in systems to steal sensitive data, install malicious software, or conduct identity theft. Their actions are driven by self-interest, typically aiming to secure financial rewards or other advantages, and they do so with little regard for the potential harm caused to individuals or organizations.

Understanding the nature of black hat hackers is crucial in the field of network security, as organizations must implement robust security measures to protect against their illicit activities, including intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and regular security audits.