Identifying the Non-Malware- Which of the Following Options Is Not a Threat-
Which of the following is not a malware? In today’s digital age, malware has become a significant threat to computer systems and personal data. With numerous types of malicious software available, it can be challenging to identify which ones are genuinely harmful and which ones are not. This article aims to shed light on this topic and help you differentiate between genuine software and potential malware.
Malware, short for malicious software, refers to any software designed to harm, exploit, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system. There are several common types of malware, including viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, and ransomware. Each type has its unique characteristics and methods of operation.
Let’s examine some of the most common types of malware and determine which one is not a malware:
1. Viruses: These are self-replicating programs that can spread from one computer to another. They often attach themselves to legitimate files and can cause significant damage to the system.
2. Worms: Similar to viruses, worms are self-replicating and can spread without human intervention. They can consume system resources and disrupt network performance.
3. Trojans: Trojans are malicious programs that disguise themselves as legitimate software. They often trick users into installing them, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to the system.
4. Spyware: Spyware is designed to monitor and collect information about a user’s activities without their consent. This information can be used for malicious purposes, such as identity theft.
5. Ransomware: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a user’s files and demands a ransom to unlock them. This can cause significant financial and emotional distress.
Now, let’s identify which of the following is not a malware:
a) Antivirus software
b) Adware
c) Firewall
d) Keylogger
The correct answer is: c) Firewall
While adware and keyloggers are types of malware, antivirus software and firewalls are designed to protect against malware. Antivirus software scans for and removes malicious software, while firewalls monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic to prevent unauthorized access.
In conclusion, it is crucial to understand the differences between malware and legitimate software to keep your computer and personal data safe. By being aware of the various types of malware and their characteristics, you can better protect yourself against potential threats.