The term for a self-replicating program that spreads without human intervention is "worm." A worm can propagate itself across networks and devices by exploiting vulnerabilities in software or operating systems. Unlike viruses, which attach themselves to existing programs, worms can independently replicate and execute, leading to widespread damage. They often consume network bandwidth, slow down systems, and may carry malicious payloads that can compromise data integrity and system security. To mitigate their effects, implementing robust cybersecurity measures is essential for detecting and eliminating such threats.