A type of malicious software that disguises itself as a legitimate program.
Description
In cybersecurity, a Trojan Horse is a type of malware that pretends to be a harmless application in order to trick users into installing it. Once activated, it can perform a variety of harmful actions without the user's knowledge, such as stealing data, creating backdoors for other malware, or allowing unauthorized access to systems. Unlike viruses, Trojans do not self-replicate but rely on users to download and execute them. They can be distributed through email attachments, infected software downloads, or compromised websites. The name originates from the ancient Greek story of the wooden horse that hid soldiers, symbolizing how the malware masquerades as something beneficial to infiltrate a system. Notable incidents include the Zeus Trojan, which targeted banking information, and the Emotet Trojan, which has been used to deliver ransomware. Awareness of this threat is crucial for both individuals and organizations to protect against potential breaches and data loss.
Examples
- Zeus Trojan: This malware focused on stealing banking credentials and was distributed via phishing emails.
- Emotet: Initially a banking Trojan, it evolved into a delivery mechanism for various types of malware, including ransomware.
Additional Information
- Trojans often require user interaction to execute, making user education essential for prevention.
- Regular software updates and using reputable antivirus programs can help defend against Trojan attacks.