### Comment:
What are the different types of malware?

### REPLY:
The most potent type of malware is a rootkit, which provides the attacker with privileged access to a compromised system. It can modify the operating system or kernel to hide its presence and allow the attacker to maintain control over the infected machine. With rootkit-based malware, an attacker can gain unrestricted access to files, processes, and network traffic, making it extremely difficult for antivirus software or system administrators to detect or remove.