AP® Cybersecurity glossary

Fileless malware

Course: AP® Cybersecurity Shows up in: Unit 4: Securing Devices

Malicious code that lives in random access memory (RAM) and uses legitimate programs already installed, instead of being stored as a file.

Appears in the course and exam description (CED): 4.1.B.3

Why it matters in Unit 4

File scans may find nothing.

Example

Commands run through a built-in system tool, leaving no malicious file.

Related terms

• Malware
• Anti-malware software