What is a defining feature of worms in a computer system?

Worms are a type of malware that are characterized by their ability to spread autonomously over networks without requiring any human intervention. This key feature allows them to rapidly infect multiple systems, often exploiting vulnerabilities in network protocols or software to propagate themselves.

Unlike viruses, which typically attach themselves to files and require user action such as opening an infected file to spread, worms actively seek out and transfer themselves across networks. This makes them particularly dangerous, as they can quickly multiply and overwhelm network resources, leading to significant disruption.

Furthermore, while some types of malware might be harmless, worms are generally harmful and can cause varying degrees of damage depending on their payload and the intent of their creators. Because they operate independently of human actions and can traverse networks at high speeds, worms pose a significant threat to both individual systems and organizational networks.