Backdoor
A hidden method of bypassing normal authentication in a computer system, often installed by attackers or built into software for maintenance purposes.
A backdoor is an undocumented entry point into a system that bypasses normal authentication mechanisms. Backdoors can be intentionally built into software (for maintenance or debugging), installed by attackers after an initial compromise, or introduced through supply chain attacks.
Attacker-installed backdoors allow persistent access to a compromised system, even after the original vulnerability is patched. They may take the form of hidden user accounts, modified system files, web shells, or network listeners.
Defenses include file integrity monitoring, regular security audits, code review processes, and maintaining strong, unique credentials (via a password manager) so that even if one access path is compromised, others remain secure.
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