Description: A Trojan is a type of malware that disguises itself as legitimate software to deceive users into installing it on their systems. Unlike viruses or worms, which replicate and spread on their own, Trojans rely on user interaction to be executed. Once installed, a Trojan can carry out various malicious actions, such as stealing personal information, installing other types of malware, or allowing remote access to an attacker. Trojans can appear in various forms, such as applications, games, or even software updates, making them particularly dangerous. Their ability to hide behind a legitimate appearance makes them one of the most common threats in the field of cybersecurity. Detecting and removing Trojans can be complicated, as they often use obfuscation techniques to avoid being identified by antivirus and antimalware software. Therefore, it is crucial for users to keep their systems updated and use effective security tools to protect themselves against this type of threat.
History: The term ‘trojan’ comes from the famous story of the Trojan War, where the Greeks used a wooden horse to infiltrate the city. In the context of computing, Trojans began to appear in the 1980s, with the first known Trojan, the ‘PC-Write Trojan’, spreading in 1987. Since then, they have evolved in sophistication and variety, adapting to new technologies and attack methods.
Uses: Trojans are primarily used to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials, banking data, and other personal information. They can also be used to install other types of malware, such as ransomware, or to create backdoors that allow attackers to access compromised systems. In the realm of ethical hacking, Trojans can be used to simulate attacks and assess the security of a system.
Examples: A notable example of a Trojan is the ‘Zeus Trojan’, which was used to steal banking information and spread through phishing emails. Another case is ‘Emotet’, which started as a banking Trojan and evolved into a broader malware distribution platform. These examples illustrate how Trojans can be used in real cyberattacks.
