(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

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What is classified as malware?

  1. Software designed for entertainment purposes.

  2. Software intended to cause harm or damage to systems or networks.

  3. Quality software that protects systems from threats.

  4. Utility software that enhances system performance.

The correct answer is: Software intended to cause harm or damage to systems or networks.

Malware is specifically defined as software that is intentionally designed to cause harm, disrupt, or exploit any programmable device, service, or network. This can include a range of malicious software types such as viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware, all of which seek to compromise the integrity, availability, or confidentiality of information and systems. The primary aim of malware is often to perform harmful functions such as stealing sensitive data, damaging systems, or gaining unauthorized access to networks. In contrast, the other options revolve around software that serves beneficial purposes. For instance, software designed for entertainment is created for enjoyment and does not seek to harm users or systems. Quality software that protects systems from threats is aimed at safeguarding against malware, while utility software enhances system performance, promoting efficiency rather than causing damage. Thus, the distinction lies in the intent and functionality of the software, affirming that only the choice reflecting harmful intent qualifies as malware.