Trojans
A trojan is a program that appears harmless, but is actually malicious. Typically, the Trojan is hidden in an innocent-looking email attachment or free download. When the user clicks on the email attachment or downloads the free program, the malware that is hidden inside is copied across to the users pc and starts to do its work. The name comes from the Legend of Troy - watch the video if you want to know the story.
Trojans can:
- Create a backdoor that lets criminals control the computer
- Record keyboard strokes to steal the user's account data and browsing history
- Download and install a virus or worm
- Install ransomware
- Switch on the computer's camera and microphone
- Turn the computer into a zombie computer
To defend against trojans:
- Use antvirus
- Use a firewall
- Be very careful clicking on attachments and downloads
- Use usernames and passwords
Legend of the Trojan Horse
Photo credit: Jorge Láscar from Australia / CC BY