A program that appears useful but secretly performs harmful actions is known as a ____________.

A Trojan Horse is a type of malicious software (malware) that appears to be a legitimate or useful program but secretly performs harmful activities after it is installed. It deceives users into believing the software is safe while silently carrying... Read More

1 BASIC COMPUTER MCQS

A program that appears useful but secretly performs harmful actions is known as a ____________.

  • Worm
  • Trojan Horse
  • Virus
  • Micro worm
Correct Answer: B. Trojan Horse

Detailed Explanation

A Trojan Horse is a type of malicious software (malware) that appears to be a legitimate or useful program but secretly performs harmful activities after it is installed. It deceives users into believing the software is safe while silently carrying out unauthorized actions in the background. Therefore, Option B (Trojan Horse) is the correct answer.


A Trojan Horse does not spread by infecting other files or copying itself to other computers. Instead, it relies on social engineering, encouraging users to install it by disguising itself as free software, games, email attachments, or fake software updates. Once installed, it can steal passwords, monitor user activities, delete files, install additional malware, or allow hackers to remotely access the infected computer.


Unlike a virus, which attaches itself to other files, or a worm, which spreads automatically through networks, a Trojan Horse depends on user interaction. A macro virus specifically infects documents containing macros, such as Microsoft Word or Excel files. The distinguishing feature of a Trojan Horse is that it looks useful but secretly carries out malicious activities, making it one of the most dangerous forms of malware.


Key Points:



  • Trojan Horse: Disguises itself as legitimate software but performs malicious actions. 

  • Virus: Attaches itself to files and spreads when executed.

  • Worm: Self-replicates and spreads automatically over networks.

  • Macro Virus: Infects macro-enabled documents such as Word and Excel files.

  • Trojan Horses commonly steal passwords, install malware, or create backdoors for attackers.

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