What is the term for software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems?

The term for software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems is malware. Malware encompasses a variety of malicious software types, including viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware, all aimed at exploiting vulnerabilities within computer systems to perform harmful actions. The primary goal of such software can range from stealing sensitive data to causing system malfunctions or outright destruction of information.

Understanding malware is crucial for anyone involved in cloud computing or IT security because it can significantly impact the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data and systems. Organizations must implement robust security measures, including firewalls, antivirus software, and regular updates, to protect against these threats and mitigate potential damages caused by malware attacks.