original_query: What is malware and what is its purpose?
query: What is malware and what is its purpose?
answer: Malware, short for malicious software, is any software intentionally designed to disrupt computers, servers, or networks; leak private information; gain unauthorized access; or deny users access. Its purposes range from stealing personal or financial information to disrupting operations, sending spam, hosting illegal content, and conducting denial-of-service attacks.