| − | A '''computer worm''' is a program that is self-replicating. It typically makes use of a network to circulate its duplicate copies to other computers on the network. | + | A '''computer worm''' is a malicious program that is self-replicating and self-executing. It typically makes use of a network to circulate duplicate copies of itself to other devices on the network. |
| − | In contrast with a [[computer virus]], a worm need not hide in an existing program. Rather than requiring user action to infect or destroy files, a worm will connect and if possible, break in to other computers its host computer has network access to. Like the [[Invertebrate]] it is named after, it could be said to crawl about and reproduce with no external assistance, rarely being noticed. | + | In contrast with a [[computer virus]], a worm need not hide in an existing program. Rather than requiring user action to steal, infect, or destroy files, a worm will connect and if possible, break in to other computers which its host computer has access to. Like the [[Invertebrate]] it is named after, it could be said to crawl about and reproduce with no external assistance, rarely being noticed. Worms are used as a delivery method form other [[malware]], such as [[spyware]] and [[Computer virus|viruses]]. |