A form of malicious software often disguised as legitimate applications, it infiltrates a system to perform harmful activities. This type of threat relies on deception, leading users to willingly execute the program, believing it to be safe or beneficial. Once activated, it can enable unauthorized access, data theft, or system compromise, operating covertly while appearing innocuous.
Understanding this class of malware is crucial for robust cybersecurity practices. Knowledge of its behavior and characteristics enables proactive measures to mitigate risks. Historical incidents underscore the potential for significant damage, highlighting the need for vigilance in software downloads and installations. Mitigation strategies involve deploying anti-malware software, exercising caution with unsolicited attachments, and verifying software authenticity.
