Malicious mischief refers to the intentional act of causing damage or harm to someone else's property. This can include actions like vandalism, graffiti, or breaking windows. The key element is that the act is done with the intent to cause trouble or distress, rather than for a legitimate purpose. In many legal systems, malicious mischief is considered a criminal offense and can lead to penalties such as fines or community service. It is important to distinguish this from accidental damage, as malicious mischief involves a deliberate choice to engage in harmful behavior.