Digital Life

Computer security jargon

Here are some common terms used when talking about computer security:

Virus: A program that replicates itself across a network or the Internet. The virus may be destructive, such as by deleting files, or it could try to overwhelm a network by copying itself.

Worm: A virus that replicates itself without human intervention. If the victim has to open an e-mail attachment to get infected, it's a virus. But if it scans for new victims and attacks by itself, it's a worm.

Trojan horse: A program that doesn't necessarily replicate itself, but like the legendary wooden horse is much more than it appears. A Trojan horse program might look like a game, but instead it steals your personal information and sends it to a criminal.

Password sniffer: A program that seeks out passwords on your computer, then sends them to a hacker. A keylogger can grab anything typed on the keyboard.

Blended threat: A program that combines the characteristics of viruses, worms and Trojan horses. A blended threat, such as last year's Nimda outbreak, is a recent phenomenon.

Exploit: A program that takes advantage of a security hole in a computer program, such as Microsoft Windows or AOL Instant Messenger.

Spyware: A program that surreptitiously monitors your actions. While they are sometimes sinister, such as a remote control program used by a hacker, software companies have been known to use spyware to gather data about customers. The practice is generally frowned upon.

Virus signature: The "fingerprints" of a virus, which antivirus programs use to identify and isolate viruses. Users should regularly update their antivirus programs online by downloading the latest virus signatures, so they're protected against new viruses.

Firewall: Software that monitors incoming and outgoing Internet traffic to your computer and checks for suspicious patterns. A firewall may alert you to spyware or a Trojan horse installed on your computer.

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