Which malware appears to be useful software but hides a malicious function?

Trojan.

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  1. Worm
  2. Trojan ✔
  3. Boot sector virus

Why: A Trojan looks like a helpful program but contains hidden malicious code. It tricks users into running it.

Huh, didn't know that: Trojans can evade security mechanisms by exploiting legitimate authorizations of the user running them.

The dad joke
Never accept free downloads from strangers, especially if they are horses.
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References

Answer: Trojan. A Trojan looks like a helpful program but contains hidden malicious code. It tricks users into running it.

  1. Trojan horse, NIST CSRC glossary csrc.nist.gov/glossary/term/trojan_horse
    A computer program that appears to have a useful function, but also has a hidden and potentially malicious function
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Ransomware, NIST Small Business Cybersecurity Corner www.nist.gov/itl/smallbusinesscyber/guidance-topic/ransomware
    Ransomware is a type of malicious attack where attackers encrypt an organization's data and demand payment to restore access.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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