Which type of malware allows an attacker to dynamically install additional malware on a system?

Prepare for the FedVTE Cyber Risk Management Test. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Be ready for your exam!

The type of malware that allows an attacker to dynamically install additional malware on a system is a downloader. Downloaders are specifically designed to retrieve and install other malicious software onto a victim’s system after initial infiltration. They often work by connecting to external servers and downloading further payloads, which can include a variety of malware such as keyloggers, ransomware, or spyware. This ability to add extra components makes downloaders particularly dangerous, as they can adapt and evolve based on the attacker's strategy.

In contrast, while viruses can replicate themselves and spread to other files or systems, they do not typically have the capability to dynamically fetch and install new malware once they are on a system. Attack scripts generally refer to a set of commands or code that can automate attacks but do not represent malware that installs additional payloads. Trojans disguise themselves as legitimate software but do not inherently possess the functionality to download and install other malicious programs after their initial installation. Therefore, downloaders are uniquely suited for the task of facilitating further malware installation, making them a critical component of many cyberattack strategies.

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