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Can a logic bomb delete files?
A logic bomb is a malicious piece of code that’s secretly inserted into a computer network, operating system, or software application. When this condition is met, the logic bomb is triggered — devastating a system by corrupting data, deleting files, or clearing hard drives.
What triggers a logic bomb?
A logic bomb is a malicious program that is triggered when a logical condition is met, such as after a number of transactions have been processed, or on a specific date (also called a time bomb). Malware such as worms often contain logic bombs, behaving in one manner, then changing tactics on a specific date and time.
Are there uses for a logic bomb that are not malicious?
The type of action carried out in a logic bomb does have a non-destructive use: It makes restricted, free software trials possible. But since this is a non-malicious, user-transparent use of the code, it’s not typically referred to as a logic bomb.
Are logic bombs illegal?
From 1980 to 1985, some software developers imbedded logic bomb into their software, set to destroy the software itself if the license was not renewed. Of course, today this practice is illegal, but people are still using logic bombs in other contexts to achieve their ends.
What are the examples of logic bomb?
A logic bomb is a piece of code intentionally inserted into a software system that will set off a malicious function when specified conditions are met. For example, a programmer may hide a piece of code that starts deleting files (such as a salary database trigger), should they ever be terminated from the company.
What are bomb viruses?
A logic bomb virus is a computer virus that contains a logic bomb, which is malicious code that triggers an attack when specific conditions are met. Positive conditions refer to something happening, like a program opening, while negative conditions refer to something not happening, like someone not logging in.
How are logic bombs used in malicious software?
Software that is inherently malicious, such as viruses and worms, often contain logic bombs that execute a certain payload at a pre-defined time or when some other condition is met. This technique can be used by a virus or worm to gain momentum and spread before being noticed.
How can I get rid of a logic bomb on my computer?
Some logic bombs can be detected and eliminated before they execute through a periodic scan of all computer files, including compressed files, with an up-to-date anti-virus program. For best results, the auto-protect and e-mail screening functions of the anti-virus program should be activated by the computer user whenever the machine is online.
What happens when a logic bomb goes off?
And when the bomb goes off, the damage is done — files are deleted, secret information is sent to the wrong people, the network is crippled for days The payload of a logic bomb is usually pretty devastating to the company under attack.
How is a logic bomb inserted into a computer?
Logic bombs are secretly inserted into a computer network through the use of malicious code. The code can be inserted into the computer’s existing software or into other forms of malware such as viruses, worms or Trojan horses. It then lies dormant, and typically undetectable, until the trigger occurs.