How does malware typically affect files on a computer system?

Malware typically affects files on a computer system by locking or deleting them and also modifying them, which is accurately reflected in the chosen answer. This behavior is a common characteristic of various types of malware, including ransomware, which encrypts files and demands payment for their release, and file-corrupting viruses that damage files, making them unusable.

Locking files means that the user is unable to access or modify them without first disabling the malware or paying a ransom. Deletion refers to the outright removal of files, potentially leading to the permanent loss of critical data. Modification can involve changing the content within files or altering file attributes, which can disrupt normal operations and lead to data integrity issues. This manipulation of files can have severe consequences for users and organizations, impacting productivity and data security.

The other options do not align with the typical functions of malware. Repairing corrupted files is not a capability of malware; rather, this activity is associated with legitimate software tools. Collecting data from files might occur through specific types of malware, such as spyware, but it doesn't encompass the overall damaging effects malware has on file systems. Organizing files is typically a function of file management systems and is not a characteristic of malware, which is primarily geared toward harmful activities.