How is "malware" defined in the context of information security?

The definition of "malware" in the context of information security specifically refers to malicious software that is intentionally designed to perform harmful actions. This can include disrupting normal operations, damaging systems, or gaining unauthorized access to data and networks. Malware encompasses various types of threats, such as viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware, all aimed at compromising the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information technology resources.

In contrast, the other options describe software and tools that do not possess these harmful characteristics. Data management software is designed for maintaining and organizing data, while applications that enhance system performance focus on optimizing the functionality of computer systems. Tools deemed legitimate for cybersecurity serve to protect systems rather than compromise them. Thus, recognizing malware as malicious software emphasizes its primary purpose of causing harm or exploiting systems in various malicious ways.