What is described as malicious software designed to exploit programmable devices?

Malware is a term that encompasses various types of malicious software designed to harm or exploit devices, networks, or services. It is specifically created to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems, often targeting vulnerabilities in software and hardware. By definition, malware includes viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

In this context, malware aims to exploit programmable devices by infiltrating them and performing unauthorized actions, such as stealing sensitive data or taking control of the system. Firewalls, on the other hand, are security devices or software that monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules, serving to protect systems from such threats rather than being a type of malicious software. Antivirus software is designed to detect, prevent, and remove malware, but it itself is not classified as malicious software. Browsers are applications used to access the internet and do not fall under the umbrella of malicious software. Therefore, malware is the most accurate and comprehensive term that describes the software designed specifically for exploitation.