What does "RAT" stand for, in the context of malware?

In the context of malware, "RAT" stands for Remote Access Trojan. This type of malicious software allows an attacker to remotely control a victim's computer or network without the user's knowledge or consent. RATs are often used for data theft, surveillance, or to gain unauthorized access to systems for various malicious purposes such as installing additional malware or launching further attacks.

RATs typically provide the attacker with a broad range of capabilities, including the ability to monitor user activity, capture screenshots, log keystrokes, and access files. They are designed to be stealthy, avoiding detection by security software and users, which makes them particularly dangerous. The effectiveness of RATs lies in their ability to establish a communication channel between the infected device and the attacker's server, allowing for continuous control and monitoring.

Understanding what a Remote Access Trojan is and how it operates is crucial for cybersecurity professionals, as they must be aware of the tactics attackers utilize and implement the necessary defensive strategies to protect systems and networks from such threats.