What is the history of malicious software?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for information regarding the history of malicious software, highlighting key events and notable programs in its development.
Answer
Malicious software started with Creeper in 1971, followed by Elk Cloner in 1982. 'Virus' term coined in 1983.
The history of malicious software begins with the Creeper program in 1971, the first known virus-like program, and continued with the Elk Cloner virus in 1982. The term 'virus' was coined in 1983 by Fred Cohen.
Answer for screen readers
The history of malicious software begins with the Creeper program in 1971, the first known virus-like program, and continued with the Elk Cloner virus in 1982. The term 'virus' was coined in 1983 by Fred Cohen.
More Information
The Creeper program marked the beginning of malware history, created as a test for self-replicating software capabilities. Elk Cloner was significant as it was the first to spread widely outside of a controlled environment.
Tips
Common mistakes include confusing the first virus-like programs with more advanced malware of later years, which often have different characteristics.
Sources
- The History of Malware | IBM - ibm.com
- A Brief History of The Evolution of Malware | Fortinet - fortinet.com
- The history of malware | Advenica - advenica.com