Level 4

Question	Answer
Malware	Malware (malicious software) is software that is designed to gain access to your computer with malicious intent.
Virus	Viruses are a malicious form of self-replicating software. Once on a computer or network, a virus will replicate itself by maliciously modifying other computer programs and inserting code. For a virus to infect a system, it needs to be initiated/executed by a user.
Worm	Worms replicate themselves but do not attach themselves to files as a virus does. Instead, worms spread through the network and use the system’s resources. Most worms cause problems by using up network bandwidth and therefore slowing down the network significantly.
Trojan	A piece of software that appears to perform a useful function (such as a game) but unbeknown to the user it also performs malicious actions. For example, it might open a ‘back door’ to give an attacker remote access to your computer.
Adware	Can be a worm, virus, or Trojan. It infects a computer and causes it to download or display malicious adverts or pop-ups when the victim is online.

Resource summary

	Created by Grace Rutland over 3 years ago