What often initiates the harm caused by a Trojan horse virus?

Study for the TSA Foundations of Information Technology Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

A Trojan horse virus is a type of malware that disguises itself as legitimate software to deceive users. The correct answer points out that these viruses can be designed to wait for a specific computer action or a predetermined date before executing their harmful code. This property makes them particularly insidious, as users might install what they believe is harmless software, only to have it trigger malicious activity at a later time without their awareness.

This delayed execution can be based on various triggers, such as specific user actions (like opening a file or launching an application) or system conditions, which can lead to greater potential for damage as the user is often unaware of the threat present in their system until it is too late. Understanding this behavior helps users and IT professionals recognize the importance of vigilance in monitoring installed software and being cautious about downloads, even from seemingly trustworthy sources. This awareness is critical in maintaining cybersecurity and avoiding the pitfalls associated with Trojan horse viruses.

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