Which term is a program that damages computers by altering how they work?

Which term is a program that damages computers by altering how they work?

• A. Malware
• B. Rootkit
• C. Virus
• D. Trojan Horse Virus

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is understanding what kind of malicious program actually damages a computer by changing how it operates. A virus fits this description because it is a self-replicating piece of code that attaches to legitimate programs or files and, when executed, can alter the system’s behavior, corrupt data, or interfere with normal operations. It spreads by infecting other files and programs, often traveling through infected downloads, email attachments, or shared drives, so the damage can multiply as the virus moves from one place to another. Malware is the broad category that includes viruses, but it’s a general umbrella term. A rootkit is focused on hiding the presence of other malware and gaining stealthy control, not necessarily on causing the typical operational damage you described. A Trojan horse looks like something harmless or useful but hides malicious code inside; while harmful, it doesn’t inherently replicate like a virus unless paired with other malware. The term “Trojan Horse Virus” isn’t a standard classification because it mixes two concepts that aren’t always linked.

The main idea here is understanding what kind of malicious program actually damages a computer by changing how it operates. A virus fits this description because it is a self-replicating piece of code that attaches to legitimate programs or files and, when executed, can alter the system’s behavior, corrupt data, or interfere with normal operations. It spreads by infecting other files and programs, often traveling through infected downloads, email attachments, or shared drives, so the damage can multiply as the virus moves from one place to another.

Malware is the broad category that includes viruses, but it’s a general umbrella term. A rootkit is focused on hiding the presence of other malware and gaining stealthy control, not necessarily on causing the typical operational damage you described. A Trojan horse looks like something harmless or useful but hides malicious code inside; while harmful, it doesn’t inherently replicate like a virus unless paired with other malware. The term “Trojan Horse Virus” isn’t a standard classification because it mixes two concepts that aren’t always linked.