What is the primary purpose of malware?

The primary purpose of malware is to infiltrate or damage a computer system without the user's informed consent. Malware, short for malicious software, encompasses a variety of threats—including viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware—that are designed to disrupt normal operations, compromise data integrity, or steal sensitive information.

Malware typically exploits vulnerabilities in software or operating systems, often going unnoticed by users until significant harm has been done. This can include corrupting files, stealing personal information, or using the system as part of a botnet for further attacks. The malicious intent inherent in malware stands in stark contrast to security-enhancing software or legitimate system performance improvement tools, which are designed to protect the user and enhance functionality.