Question

Which malware type disguises itself as legitimate software?

• A. Spyware
• B. Adware
• C. Virus
• D. Trojan

Hint:

Definition trigger:
“Disguises itself as legitimate/useful software” \(\rightarrow\) Trojan.
“Attaches to existing files” \(\rightarrow\) Virus.
“Spreads on its own without user action” \(\rightarrow\) Worm.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept:
Malware variants employ distinct social engineering and infection vectors.
The method of deception where a program presents itself as authentic, useful software while concealing a malicious payload is derived from the classical Greek tale of the Trojan Horse.

Step 1: Identifying the Masquerading Behavior:
A Trojan horse specifically disguises itself as legitimate or harmless software (e.g., an antivirus scanner, game, driver updater, or media player).
Users are deceived into downloading and executing the application.
Once executed, the Trojan drops its malicious payload, which may grant backdoor administrative control to an attacker or compromise confidential files.

Step 2: Evaluating Other Options:
- Spyware covertly monitors user behavior and keystrokes without necessarily pretending to be a complete software application.
- Adware serves unauthorized advertisements and pop-ups.
- A Virus attaches itself to an existing valid executable host file and spreads when the host file is shared.
Final Answer:
The malware type that disguises itself as legitimate software is a Trojan. Therefore, option (D) is correct.