Malicious Mobile Code

MMC Terminology

Here are some other malicious mobile code terms used throughout the computer security industry that you will need to understand while reading this book.

Antivirus

Antivirus (AV) programs, research, and researchers are dedicated to preventing the unknown spread of malicious mobile code. Whereas, the term AV is used to explicitly describe researchers working against computer virus programs, the lines of battle now include viruses, worms, Trojans, malicious Java applets, and other intentionally written rogue programs. An antivirus researcher rarely deals only in viruses, and it is the rare antivirus program that only detects viruses. However, because viruses are the most prolific type of malicious code, the term AV is often used when the intent is to describe all malicious code.

Backdoor

A backdoor is a subroutine within a malicious program that allows hackers to access previously secure computer systems without the knowledge of the owner/user/administrator. Many sophisticated Trojans today (such as Back Orifice, The Thing , or NetBus ) are backdoor programs.

Construction kits

Today, many malicious code creators don’t even know how to program. Other hackers have created construction kits that allow nonprogrammers to make up their own viruses and Trojans by simply choosing a few options. The kit compiles the code and produces the harmful bug.

Exploit

An exploit is a rogue code action that takes advantage of a security flaw in a particular system or language. Exploits ...