What does the term "malware" refer to overall?

The term "malware" refers specifically to software that is designed with the intent to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise any programmable device, network, or system. This encompasses a wide range of malicious programs, including viruses, worms, trojan horses, ransomware, spyware, and adware. Each of these types of malware serves the primary purpose of either causing damage, stealing information, or exploiting vulnerabilities for malicious gains, rather than providing any beneficial functionality.

The focus on exploitation or harm is crucial to understanding what malware is; it is distinctly different from benign software, which is developed to enhance user experience, perform specific tasks, or facilitate business processes. By definition, malware operates against the user's interests, often without their knowledge or consent, highlighting the critical need for defensive measures in cybersecurity practices. This nuanced understanding of malware is essential for identifying threats and implementing effective security controls.