A backdoor refers to any method by which unauthorized or even authorized users can get around standard security measures and gain high-level user access on a computer system, network, or software application.
Backdoors can also be installed by software or hardware makers as a deliberate means of gaining access to their technology after the fact. Backdoors of the non-criminal variety help customers who are hopelessly locked out of their devices or troubleshoot and resolve software issues.
A malicious user can install a backdoor by taking advantage of vulnerable systems on a web application, and once installed, detection is difficult as files tend to obfuscate.
Webserver backdoors are used for several malicious activities, including:
- Data theft
- Website defacing
- Server hijacking
- The launching of a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks
- Infecting website visitors (watering hole attacks)
- Advanced persistent threat (APT) assaults
If you’re concerned about backdoors, you heard about backdoors in the news and want to know what the deal is, or you have a backdoor on your computer and need to get rid of it right now, you’re in the right place – contact Mathews IT Services!