rootkit

rootkit, a form of malicious software, or malware, that infects a computer’s hard drive and allows unauthorized “root-level” access and control of the computer. Rootkits are difficult to detect because they are designed to stay hidden. It is sometimes difficult to remove a rootkit without completely erasing the drive and having to reinstall the computer’s operating system. Often a personal computer (PC) becomes infected with a rootkit through a phishing attack when the owner opens...