Which term denotes malicious software that damages or disables computer systems and gives control to the attacker?

Which term denotes malicious software that damages or disables computer systems and gives control to the attacker?

• A. Spyware
• B. Trojan Horse
• C. Malware
• D. Virus

Answer: (C)

Malware is the broad term for software designed to cause harm to a computer and give an attacker control over it. The description here fits because it highlights not just damage or disruption, but also the creation of a way for an attacker to take control of the system. Spyware focuses on stealthy data collection rather than damage or remote control. A Trojan Horse is a disguise for malicious activity and is a specific type of malware, not the general category. A virus is also a specific type of malware that replicates and can cause damage, but again it represents one family, not the overall label. So, the best single term for this scenario is malware.

Malware is the broad term for software designed to cause harm to a computer and give an attacker control over it. The description here fits because it highlights not just damage or disruption, but also the creation of a way for an attacker to take control of the system. Spyware focuses on stealthy data collection rather than damage or remote control. A Trojan Horse is a disguise for malicious activity and is a specific type of malware, not the general category. A virus is also a specific type of malware that replicates and can cause damage, but again it represents one family, not the overall label. So, the best single term for this scenario is malware.