What is the name given to software designed to harm or exploit computer systems?

The term given to software specifically designed to harm or exploit computer systems is "Malicious Code." This encompasses a variety of harmful software types intended to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or data. Malicious code can manifest in many forms, including viruses, worms, Trojans, and other types of malware, and its primary intent is malicious behavior.

By contrast, adware, spyware, and crippleware are categories of software that, while potentially harmful or annoying, don't universally encompass the broader scope of malicious activities associated with malicious code. Adware typically displays unwanted advertisements and may collect user data primarily for marketing purposes. Spyware is designed to gather information about a user without their knowledge, focusing on surveillance rather than outright damage. Crippleware refers to software that is intentionally limited in functionality until certain conditions are met, such as purchase or subscription, which falls outside of the intent to cause harm. Hence, identifying malicious code represents the most comprehensive understanding of software designed to exploit or compromise systems.