In cybersecurity, which term is used to describe a hidden backdoor allowing unauthorized access?

The term that describes a hidden backdoor allowing unauthorized access is a backdoor. A backdoor is a piece of software or a method that provides bypassing of normal authentication or encryption in a computer system, allowing attackers to gain control without being detected. This can be especially dangerous as it can provide persistent access even after security measures are implemented.

Understanding the context of a backdoor highlights its role in cybersecurity threats. While Trojans, worms, and ransomware represent different types of malware, they do not specifically denote the concept of a hidden entry point. A Trojan typically masquerades as legitimate software to trick users into running it, a worm is a self-replicating malware that spreads through networks, and ransomware focuses on encrypting a user’s data and demanding payment for decryption. In contrast, the backdoor specifically emphasizes unauthorized access, making it the correct choice for this question.