The paper (often formally titled or sub-titled around "An Analysis of EXE File Threats") explores the dual nature of executable files as both essential system components and primary vehicles for malware delivery .
: Using custom "packers" to compress the malicious code, making it unreadable to standard antivirus scanners until it is unpacked in memory. When EXE Files Are Harmful
: The paper highlights that users often grant .exe files elevated permissions without fully understanding the scope. Once executed, these files can modify system registries, disable security software, and install persistent backdoors. The paper (often formally titled or sub-titled around