Question

A worm does not require human interaction to spread to other computers.

a) Define what a computer worm is.
b) Explain how worms differ from viruses.
c) Discuss the potential risks associated with computer worms.
d) Provide an example of a famous computer worm.

Answer 1

A computer worm is a type of malware that replicates itself and spreads across computer networks without requiring human interaction. Worms differ from viruses in how they spread, and they can pose risks such as network degradation, security breaches, data theft, and system disruptions. One famous example of a computer worm is the ILOVEYOU worm.

Step-by-step explanation:

a) Definition of a computer worm:

A computer worm is a type of malware that replicates itself and spreads across computer networks without requiring human interaction. It can self-replicate and spread to other computers through various means, such as network vulnerabilities, email attachments, or malicious websites. Unlike a computer virus, which requires human intervention to spread, a worm can propagate itself automatically.

b) Differences between worms and viruses:

While both worms and viruses are types of malware, worms differ from viruses in how they spread. Worms are standalone programs that can spread autonomously, while viruses need human interaction or the execution of an infected file to spread. Worms can also exploit network vulnerabilities to propagate, while viruses typically infect files or programs.

c) Risks associated with computer worms:

Computer worms can cause significant damage and pose several risks:

1. They can degrade network performance and consume bandwidth by creating excessive network traffic.
2. They can compromise the security of systems by opening backdoors or installing additional malicious software.
3. They can steal sensitive information, such as passwords or financial data, and transmit them to remote servers.
4. They can disrupt critical services or cause system crashes, resulting in loss of productivity and financial losses.

d) Example of a famous computer worm:

The ILOVEYOU worm, also known as the Love Bug, is one of the most famous computer worms. It was unleashed in May 2000 and spread rapidly through email attachments with enticing subject lines. Once opened, the worm replicated itself and overwrote files, causing massive damage to infected systems.