backdooring

Bypassing proper channels

Backdooring is circumventing normal procedures or safeguards to gain unauthorized access.

In computing, it means installing hidden entry points in software or systems: The malware was backdooring corporate networks.

More broadly, it describes any sneaky workaround—getting someone a job through connections rather than the hiring process, or quietly undermining rules while appearing to follow them.

cybersecurity

exploit

Notable act or abuse

rootkitHidden unauthorized access software
malwareHarmful computer programs
vulnerabilityOpenness to harm

zero-day · keylogger · botnet · spyware · ransomware · breach · payload · RAT · persistence · injection

covert-access

infiltration

Covert entry into organization

clandestineConcealed from authorities
surreptitiousDone secretly, avoiding detection
unauthorizedNot officially permitted

hidden · concealed · bypass · circumvention · evasion · undetected · stealth · subterfuge · espionage · undercover

betrayal

treachery

Deliberate violation of trust

double-dealingDeceptive practice of betrayal
subversionUndermining established authority
collusionFraudulent secret cooperation

undermining · sabotage · disloyalty · deception · mole · leaking · sellout · turncoat · corruption · bribery

Opposites

legitimacy of access

backdooringauthorizing

Granting official permission

authenticating · credentialing · whitelisting

entry method

backdooringmain entry

Primary point of ingress

procedural transparency

backdooringdue process

Guaranteed judicial fairness

Family

backdoor, backdoors, backdoored

Familiarity: Top 1,000,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Negative · Rated PG