What classification covers malware that spreads without user intervention?

The correct classification for malware that spreads without user intervention is a worm. Worms are a specific type of malware that can replicate themselves and spread to other systems automatically, often exploiting vulnerabilities in software or networks. Unlike other forms of malware, such as ransomware, adware, or trojans, worms do not require any action from the user to initiate their spread. They can independently find ways to move through networks and infect connected systems, making them particularly dangerous.

Ransomware, while also malicious, typically requires some form of user interaction to be activated, such as opening a phishing email or downloading an infected file. Adware is often bundled with legitimate software and serves to display advertisements, and while it can affect systems, it does not spread independently like a worm. Trojans masquerade as legitimate software or include hidden malicious components, but they also depend on user actions to be installed, unlike a worm, which propagates on its own.