What type of cyber-attack involves tricking a user into executing malicious software?

The type of cyber-attack that involves tricking a user into executing malicious software is a Trojan horse. This type of malware is disguised as a legitimate program or file, encouraging users to install or execute it under the false pretense that it is safe. Unlike other malware, which may exploit vulnerabilities or install themselves silently, Trojan horses rely heavily on social manipulation.

Once installed, a Trojan horse can perform various malicious activities, such as stealing sensitive data, creating backdoors for other malware, or taking control of the victim’s system. The key characteristic of a Trojan horse is that it requires user interaction to execute, making it essential for attackers to craft believable scenarios or disguises to persuade users to run the software.

In contrast, phishing primarily seeks to acquire sensitive information through deceptive emails or messages but may not directly involve the execution of malicious software. Social engineering is a broader term that encompasses various methods to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information but isn't specifically tied to the execution of malicious programs. Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a system or files, typically until a ransom is paid, but it also does not specifically denote the deceit aspect of execution alone. Thus, the Trojan horse best fits the description of a