What is Worm?
Worm Definition: A self-replicating program that operates without altering existing computer files but may exploit the vulnerabilities of systems to conduct activities ranging from using resources to damaging networks.
Understanding Worm
A self-replicating program that operates without altering existing computer files but may exploit the vulnerabilities of systems to conduct activities ranging from using resources to damaging networks. A worm is a self-propagating type of malware that spreads across systems networks and devices without requiring user interaction unlike viruses which require a host program execution or user action. Worms consume network bandwidth replicate rapidly and often deliver additional malicious payloads such as backdoors ransomware or data theft tools. Worm threats are addressed in standards like NIST SP 800-83 and various security frameworks. Organizations protect against worms through network segmentation patch management intrusion prevention endpoint protection and network monitoring. For example an enterprise might defend against worm outbreaks by implementing timely vulnerability patching to close exploitation paths network segmentation to limit lateral movement network-based intrusion prevention to block propagation attempts host-based firewalls to restrict unnecessary communication automated anomaly detection to identify worm-like behavior and incident response playbooks specifically designed for containing fast-spreading worms. Related terms Malware Self-replicating code Network propagation Lateral movement Vulnerability exploitation Buffer overflow Remote code execution Network security Patch management Malware detection.