Which of the following best describes malware?

Malware is defined as malicious software designed specifically to harm, exploit, or otherwise disrupt the operation of computer systems and networks. This encompasses a wide range of harmful software types, including viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware, among others. The primary function of malware is to infiltrate, damage, or manipulate computer systems and data without the user's consent, often leading to data breaches, loss of functionality, or unauthorized access to sensitive information.

The description provided emphasizes the disruptive nature of malware, which is its core characteristic. In contrast, other options do not accurately capture the essence of malware. Helpful software, for example, is intended to enhance performance and improve user experience, while software for managing tasks typically refers to productivity tools that assist users in their day-to-day operations. Improperly coded applications, while they may cause issues, do not inherently carry the malicious intent associated with malware. Malware is specifically malicious, whereas improperly coded applications may simply be error-prone without being harmful or intended to disrupt operations.