Trojan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trojan

[ˈtrəʊdʒən ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

computer security

A type of malicious software that disguises itself as a legitimate program to gain access to a computer system without the user's consent. Trojans often steal sensitive information or cause damage to the system.

Synonyms

malware, spyware, virus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
trojan	This term refers to malicious software that pretends to be legitimate. It can also create backdoors to other types of malware. Often used in discussions about cybersecurity breaches. The company discovered a trojan hidden in the email attachment. He downloaded a game that turned out to be a trojan.
malware	A broad term for any software that causes harm to computers, networks, or users. Suitable for general discussions about computer security. The IT department warned employees about the new malware circulating. Her computer was infected with malware that stole her personal information.
virus	Refers to a type of malware that replicates by inserting its code into other programs or files. Often discussed in relation to infection and damage to data. The virus corrupted all the files on her computer. An email contained a virus that spread through the entire network.
spyware	Specifically used for software designed to gather information covertly from a user's device, often for advertising or espionage purposes. It can be discussed in terms of privacy concerns. The app was found to have spyware that tracked users' locations. He removed the spyware from his phone to protect his data.

Examples of usage

Make sure to use a reliable antivirus program to protect your computer from trojans.
If you receive an email attachment from an unknown sender, be cautious as it may contain a trojan.
Trojans can be used by hackers to remotely control a victim's computer.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term comes from the ancient Greek story of the Trojan War, where a giant wooden horse was used to trick the city of Troy.
Warriors hid inside the wooden horse, and once it was brought into the city, they attacked from within.
This cunning tactic symbolizes deception and strategy in warfare and is still referenced in various contexts today.

Technology

In computing, 'Trojan' refers to malware that masquerades as a legitimate software to deceive users into installing harmful programs.
Trojan viruses can steal personal information or give hackers control of your computer, similar to how the original horse allowed the Greeks to take Troy.
Users can protect themselves from Trojans by avoiding unknown downloads and keeping their antivirus software updated.

Literature

The story of the Trojan horse is immortalized in Homer's 'Iliad' and depicted in various works of art throughout history.
It serves as a metaphor in literature for betrayal and the cunning nature of humans, often appearing in modern storytelling.
The concept has inspired countless adaptations in film and theater, illustrating the timeless nature of this ancient tale.

Pop Culture

The idea of deception associated with Trojans has permeated pop culture, appearing in movies, books, and even video games.
Films often use the concept of Trojan-like tricks in heist narratives, where characters must outsmart their opponents.
The term 'Trojan horse' has evolved into a common idiom used to describe any deceptive ploy.

Psychology

Trojan-like tactics play on the psychological principle of trust, manipulating users into letting their guard down.
People are often more susceptible to deception when they perceive something as friendly or beneficial, like the Greek's use of the horse as a 'gift'.
Studying such deception can help in understanding human behavior and improving decision-making to avoid scams.

Origin of 'trojan'

The term 'trojan' originates from Greek mythology, specifically the Trojan War. In the war, the Greeks used a wooden horse, known as the Trojan Horse, to enter the city of Troy and achieve victory. The concept of deception and hidden danger in the Trojan Horse story is reflected in the use of the term 'trojan' for malicious software in the computer world.