Skip main navigation

New offer! Get 30% off one whole year of Unlimited learning. Subscribe for just £249.99 £174.99. New subscribers only. T&Cs apply

Find out more

Trojans: Understanding Their Behaviour and Characteristics

Trojans come attached to what seems like a legitimate piece of software, before infecting your computer. Watch Skylar Simmons explain more.

In the video, you will learn about Trojans, which take their name from the ancient Greek legend of the Odyssey.

During the 10-year long Trojan War, the Greeks offered the gift of a massive wooden horse to the Trojan army and pretended to sail away. As the horse was a symbol of the city of Troy, the Trojans believed it to be a peace offering, but hidden inside was a selection of men from the Greek army. The Trojans let the horse inside, where the troops emerged and sieged the city.

Like its namesake from the myth, Trojans come attached to what seems like a legitimate piece of software, before infecting your computer.

Over to you: How do trojans differ from worms? Share your thoughts below.

This article is from the free online

Cyber Security Foundations: Common Malware Attacks and Defense Strategies

Created by
FutureLearn - Learning For Life

Reach your personal and professional goals

Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.

Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.

Start Learning now