Malicious code is often designed to do what?

Malicious code is fundamentally crafted with harmful intent, primarily aimed at stealing or destroying information. This type of software, which includes viruses, worms, spyware, and ransomware, targets sensitive personal data, financial information, or critical system files. Once impacted by such malicious code, users can suffer significant data breaches, loss of data integrity, and financial harm. The goal of these threats is to exploit vulnerabilities for illegal gains or to cause disruption in operations.

In contrast, enhancing system functionality, optimizing network performance, and facilitating user access to data are positive objectives associated with legitimate software development. These goals do not align with the intent of malicious code, which is inherently destructive. Thus, the focus on theft or destruction of information makes the identification of malicious code clear and its purpose evident.