Which term describes a self-replicating malware that spreads by exploiting software vulnerabilities and does not require activation?

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

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is a program that can spread on its own by using weaknesses in software, without anyone having to run or activate it. That describes a worm. Worms are standalone programs that copy themselves and move across networks by exploiting vulnerabilities or by taking advantage of exposed services, so they can propagate without user action.

This differs from viruses, which attach to legitimate files and typically require a user to open or execute the infected code; Trojans, which disguise themselves as something harmless or desirable and also need user action to install or run; and spyware, which focuses on secretly collecting information and may not automatically replicate across systems. The hallmark of a worm is automatic, self-contained propagation through networks, exploiting flaws to spread.