Solution:A worm is a type of malware that can spread and replicate itself, often without user interaction.- It does not require a host program to spread, unlike a virus.
- Worms use network connections to find vulnerable devices and systems to infect, and they can spread rapidly.
- Unlike viruses, which need to attach to another program or document, worms are self-contained and can operate independently.
common types of malware found in computers, explained clearly:
Virus
Attaches itself to clean files and spreads to other files or programs.
Can corrupt or delete data.
Worm
Self-replicates and spreads independently across networks without needing to attach to files.
Can slow down or crash networks.
Trojan Horse (Trojan)
Disguises itself as legitimate software to trick users into installing it.
Can create backdoors for hackers to access the system.
Spyware
Secretly monitors user activity and collects sensitive information (e.g., passwords, credit card details).
Sends data to attackers without user consent.
Adware
Automatically displays or downloads unwanted advertisements.
Often bundled with free software.
Ransomware
Encrypts or locks user files and demands payment (ransom) to restore access.
Can cause severe data loss.
Rootkit
Hides itself deep in the system to avoid detection.
Allows attackers to maintain unauthorized access.
Keylogger
Records keystrokes to capture sensitive data like passwords or credit card numbers.
Botnet Malware
Infects many computers to form a network (“botnet”) controlled remotely by hackers.
Used for spam, DDoS attacks, etc.
Fileless Malware
Does not write files to disk, making it harder to detect.
Resides in memory and exploits legitimate system tools.