What is the primary purpose of phishing as defined in the context provided?

Phishing is a type of cybercrime aimed at deceitfully acquiring sensitive information from individuals, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal data. This is typically achieved through fraudulent emails or websites that mimic legitimate sources, leading individuals to unknowingly provide their confidential information. The primary purpose is not related to education, verification, or promoting safety; instead, it's about tricking users into revealing data that the attackers can exploit for malicious purposes. By understanding that the goal of phishing is to illegally obtain sensitive information, individuals can better protect themselves from such threats.