What is the term for an illegal computer program used to disrupt processes and access confidential information?

The term "malware" is used to refer to any malicious software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise a computer system or its data. It encompasses a broad range of harmful programs, including viruses, worms, and Trojans, which can disrupt normal operations and potentially access sensitive information without authorization.

In a cybersecurity context, malware is a catch-all term that addresses various forms of harmful software, highlighting its capability to disrupt processes significantly and access confidential data. The misuse of malware can lead to significant security breaches, data theft, and damage to systems.

Other options present specific types of malware or related programs. Spyware, for example, tracks user activity without their knowledge but may not necessarily disrupt processes as broadly as malware. Adware focuses on delivering advertisements and is not inherently designed to disrupt system functions or access sensitive information. Ransomware, while a form of malware, is specifically aimed at holding data hostage for ransom rather than general disruption or data exfiltration, making it a subset of the broader malware category. Hence, selecting "malware" encompasses all these harmful behaviors.