A formal definition of computer worms and some related results

In this paper, we propose a formal definition of ‘Computer Worms’ and discuss some of their properties. We begin by reviewing the formal definition of ‘Computer Viruses’, and their properties. We then define ‘Computer Worms’ as a subclass of viruses, and show that many of the interesting properties derived for viruses hold for worms. Finally, we summarize results, draw conclusions, and propose further work. Search terms: Computer Viruses, Computer Worms Copyright c © 1991, Fred Cohen ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ‡ Funded by ASP, PO Box 81270, Pittsburgh, PA 15217, USA