What is the purpose of rootkits in malware?

Rootkits are a type of malware designed specifically to conceal the presence of other malicious software on a system. Their main purpose is to enable an attacker to maintain access to a compromised system while evading detection from security tools and users. By modifying the operating system or software to hide their existence, rootkits can help other types of malware—such as keyloggers or trojans—function without being noticed.

They achieve this secrecy through various techniques, such as altering system files, processes, and logs, making it difficult for users and security programs to identify malicious activities. Hence, the primary role of rootkits is clearly focused on stealth and maintaining the covert operation of the malware ecosystem within the host system, which is why this answer is correct.