What does the term 'intruder' refer to in the context of spoofing?

In the context of spoofing, the term 'intruder' refers to a malicious actor deceiving a computer system. Spoofing is a technique often used in cyber attacks where the intruder impersonates another user or device to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or systems. This can involve techniques such as IP spoofing, where an attacker sends messages to a computer with an IP address that appears to be from a trusted source, or email spoofing, where the sender's address is forged to mislead the recipient.

By impersonating a legitimate entity, the intruder can carry out various malicious activities, including stealing data, planting malware, or disrupting services. Understanding this definition is crucial for recognizing potential security threats and implementing appropriate safeguards to protect network infrastructure.