Malware
Polymorphic Malware
Also known as: Self-encrypting malware, Polymorphic virus
Definition
Malware that changes its on-disk appearance — typically via re-encryption or packing — for each infection, while keeping its core logic intact.
Examples
- Storm Worm, which repackaged itself frequently to evade signature scans.
- Virut, a long-running polymorphic file-infector that mutated on each propagation.
Related terms
Metamorphic Malware
Malware that fully rewrites its own code on each propagation, producing semantically equivalent but structurally different binaries.
Stealth Malware
Malware specifically engineered to evade detection by users, security tools, and forensic investigators through hiding, mimicry, and anti-analysis tricks.
Computer Virus
Malicious code that inserts copies of itself into other programs or files and executes when the host is run.
Malware Analysis
Malware Analysis — definition coming soon.
EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response)
An endpoint security technology that continuously records process, file, registry and network activity to detect, investigate and respond to threats on hosts.
Malware
Any software intentionally designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computers, networks, or data.