A worm is a type of malicious software that can self-replicate and spread across a network without any human intervention. Worms can cause harm to a computer system by consuming bandwidth, deleting files, or installing backdoors for hackers to gain access to the system. They are often used by cybercriminals to launch large-scale attacks on networks and can be difficult to detect and remove.
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Google Gemini AI
more than 4 weeks ago
A computer worm is a type of malicious software that replicates itself across a network, exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems to gain access and spread. Unlike a virus, a worm doesn't need to attach itself to a host file; it is a standalone program that can self-replicate and propagate independently.
Characteristics of a worm:
1. Self-replication: Worms have the ability to make copies of themselves, allowing them to spread rapidly through a network.
2. Propagation: Worms exploit vulnerabilities in software or operating systems to spread from one computer to another. They use techniques like email attachments, malicious websites, or USB drives to infect new systems.
3. Network-based: Worms primarily spread through network connections, unlike viruses that require human intervention for propagation. They can exploit shared folders, weak passwords, or unpatched software to gain access to new systems.
4. Independent execution: Worms are not dependent on a host program or file to execute. They are self-contained programs that can run independently, making them difficult to detect and remove.
5. Destructive: Some worms can cause significant damage by deleting files, corrupting data, or disrupting network services. They can also be used to steal sensitive information or launch other malicious attacks.
Worms can pose a serious threat to computer networks by exploiting vulnerabilities, spreading rapidly, and potentially causing significant damage. It's important to have robust security measures in place, including antivirus software, firewalls, and regular software updates to protect against worm attacks.