Primary definition
Hardware, firmware, or software that is intentionally included or inserted in a system for a harmful purpose. Source: IETF RFC 4949 Ver 2
Also known asmalware · malicious code · malicious software · harmful software · malicious program
3 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 9, 2026
— Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015View source
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
Free. One useful email each week. Unsubscribe anytime.Learn more about the ESG newsletter →
CNSSGC
Hardware, firmware, or software that is intentionally included or inserted in a system for a harmful purpose. Source: IETF RFC 4949 Ver 2
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015 · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Malicious Logic. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 15, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/malicious-logic
Sources
3 cited · last checked Aug 9, 2026
01
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
High consensus
02
NICCS Glossary
NICCS Glossary
Disputed
03
The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary
Multi-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.
Get election terms explained weekly →
Free · Nonpartisan · Unsubscribe anytime.