Malware: viruses, trojans and spyware

Overview

Viruses, trojans, spyware and keyloggers, how malware reaches a computer, anti-malware software and firewalls, and everyday habits that keep a user safe.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What is malware?

   Model answer

   Malware is an umbrella term for hostile or intrusive software. The word is short for malicious software.

2. 2

   What is a computer virus?

   Model answer

   A computer virus is malware that attaches itself to a program or file. The virus spreads when the infected file is copied or run.

3. 3

   What harm can a computer virus do?

   Model answer

   A virus can delete or corrupt files and slow a computer down. Some viruses give attackers control of the machine.

4. 4

   What is a trojan?

   Model answer

   A trojan is malware disguised as useful or harmless software. Once installed, a trojan carries out hidden harmful actions.

5. 5

   How does a trojan differ from a virus?

   Model answer

   A trojan relies on the user being tricked into installing it. A virus copies itself into other files to spread.

6. 6

   What is spyware?

   Model answer

   Spyware is malware that secretly monitors a user's activity and sends the information to someone else. Spyware can record passwords and browsing history.

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