Trojan horse

Code masking as a useful program that when activated performs malicious activity such as locating protected passwords or damaging data on a computer’s hard disk.

A non-self-replicating program that seems to have a useful purpose, but in reality has a different, malicious purpose.

A computer program with an apparently or actually useful function that contains additional (hidden) functions that surreptitiously exploit the legitimate authorizations of the invoking process to the detriment of security or mission performance.

A program that appears to be useful or harmless but that contains hidden code designed to exploit or damage the system on which it is run. Trojan horse programs are most commonly delivered to users through e-mail messages that misrepresent the program's purpose and function. Also called Trojan code. [Exchange 2007]

1. An apparently harmless program containing malicious logic that allows the unauthorized collection, falsification, or destruction of data. [2382-pt.8] 2. [A] program containing hidden code allowing the unauthorized collection, falsification, or destruction of information. [INFOSEC-99] 3. A computer program with an apparently or actually useful function that contains additional (hidden) functions that surreptitiously exploit the legitimate authorizations of the invoking process to the detriment of security. For example, making a "blind copy" of a sensitive file for the creator of the Trojan Horse [TCSEC].