Backdoor

A backdoor is a method of covertly bypassing authentication, often in a digital system. A backdoor can be placed intentionally by a party to secretly access the system, or can be the result of a bug or exploit.

How it works

There are many types of backdoor.

Backdoor malware

A backdoor malware is a software that, when executed installs a backdoor into the system that executed it. This is often referred to as a Trojan. These often use an unpatched exploit to gain access to the system.

Propriatary backdoors

A propriatary backdoor is a built-in backdoor; A backdoor that was intentionally placed there. These backdoors can be used for good or bad purposes. Some may exist for testing purposes. However, if left in the final product, may be susceptible to exploitation. Other built-in backdoors are used by the company for nefarious purposes.

Why it is a problem

Backdoors can be used to inject spyware in order to collect information on users.

Examples

• SecuRam installs backdoor on ProLogic series safe locks.