Trojan horse

Trojan Horse is a term that draws inspiration from ancient Greek mythology. It refers to malicious software that disguises itself as legitimate or benign software or files. Much like the legendary wooden horse that concealed Greek soldiers, a Trojan Horse infiltrates a target system, carrying malicious payloads.

The Anatomy of a Trojan Horse

True to its origins, trojan horses are deceptive and lethal once they get inside their target network. Let’s explore their main components.

• Deceptive Disguise: A Trojan Horse masquerades as something harmless or desirable, such as a browser extension or downloadable file. It could be a legitimate-looking software installer, a document, or even an image file.
• Payload Concealment: Hidden within the seemingly innocent exterior is a malicious payload. This payload can range from malware, spyware, ransomware, or remote access tools.

Launching the Attack

Once a user interacts with or opens the Trojan Horse, the malicious payload is executed. This often leads to unauthorized access, data theft, system compromise, or other malicious actions.

Trojans typically operate quietly in the background, avoiding detection while carrying out their harmful tasks.

Because of their efficacy, trojans are a common attack vector. They are often delivered via phishing emails, malicious downloads, or compromised websites. Vigilance, robust antivirus software, and user education are key defenses against these stealthy threats.