What Does a Trojan Horse Do?

A Trojan Horse is a malware program that can access users' PCs without their knowledge. It is a program that is usually created by a hacker. The program may be easier to access a user's system if the computer is not protected by some type of security software. When this program is created by a hacker, the hacker scans the computer in an attempt to steal information.

Significance

Once a hacker has created a Trojan Horse program that affects a user's system, the hacker can gain access to the computer. The purpose of creating the program is to give the hacker the ability to steal the user's personal information, such as credit card numbers or passwords that the user enters. Hackers can also modify files locate on the user's computer.

Function

A Trojan Horse can gain access to a computer by a user opening an e-mail that contains an attachment. Some hackers create fake e-mails and disguise it as a legitimate one in order to get users to click on it and download a Trojan Horse to their PC. Some free downloads located in file sharing networks also contain Trojan Horse programs that install without the user's knowledge. It can also disguise itself inside of a pop-up ad in an attempt to get the user to click on it.

Effects

A Trojan Horse can affect a user's computer by slowing down the computer's processor. Once this program has gained access to a user's computer, it is difficult to determine the full effects of the damage, and many users result to reinstalling their software to ensure that is it clean. Many anti-virus programs also work to remove the Trojan Horse program.

Prevention/Solution

If a computer is located on a network, the best way to prevent infection of a Trojan Horse is to activate the computer's firewall. Networked computers share resources, and being on the network allows one computer the ability to access another. Enabling a firewall secures the computer and prevents unauthorized access. Individual users can also connect routers to their computers. The router also allows a secure connection to the Internet and provides protection. It is also good practice to install a reputable anti-virus program.

Features

Most Trojan Horse programs have two parts. One part is called a server, and the other is the client. The server part is the one that actually infects and invades the user's computer. The client part of the program is the one that allows the hacker the ability to invade the infected computer. The hacker uses the client part to send requests when performing a scan on the Internet. When an infected computer is found, the server replies to the request, and the hacker links to the infected computer and invades it.

Resources

• Free AVG Anti-Virus Download