A backdoor is a piece of software installed either knowingly or unknowingly. It allows the user to bypass normal authentication procedures and gain access to protected areas and functions of the software or even to the entire (computer) system. 

Advantages of backdoors

A backdoor can be used both by users themselves who have forgotten their access restrictions and by attackers who are aware of it. Often, such a backdoor is built in by the programmers themselves, for example to enable the resetting of passwords. Sometimes the backdoor therefore represents the last resort for accessing a locked computer and the data it contains. Furthermore, security measures can be reset or security software solutions tested in this way.

Disadvantages of backdoors

Malware can gain access via a backdoor. Trojans, for instance, often install their own backdoors to download further malware. Other viruses specifically seek out existing backdoors to infiltrate a system. There is also a significant risk of misuse: both manufacturers and security authorities could gain unauthorized access to IT systems without the owner’s consent or a court order.

Encryption algorithms and network protocols can also contain backdoors that are difficult to detect. High-quality anti-malware programs and secure firewalls offer protection against external attacks. To minimize security risks associated with outdated software, application modernization can help – by migrating to a modern programming language, modern analysis tools can be used to identify vulnerabilities more effectively. However, complete security is virtually impossible to achieve. Therefore, caution is advised when dealing with suspicious emails or attachments.

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