A virus is a program that can replicate itself on a system but not necessarily spread itself by network connections.
What is malware that can spread itself over open network connections?
Correct Answer: A
Explanation/Reference:
Explanation:
Computer worm is malicious code that spreads from host to host through removable disks or across a network connection. It differs from a virus as it does not require a host application to spread and is a self- contained application.
Incorrect Answers:
B: A rootkit is a set of tools placed on a system that has already been compromised. It is intended for future use by the attacker. It does not replicate or spread across a network connection.
C: Adware is software that automatically generates advertisements. It is not malicious code but some adware use invasive measures which can cause security and privacy issues.
D: A logic bomb executes a set of instructions when specific conditions are met. It is not self-replicating code and does not spread across a network connection.
References:
Harris, Shon, All In One CISSP Exam Guide, 6th Edition, McGraw-Hill, New York, 2013, pp. 1202, 1203,
1204, 1206
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rootkit
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_worm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adware