What term is used to describe bogus messages that spread via email forwarding?

The term used to describe bogus messages that spread via email forwarding is "hoaxes." Hoaxes typically involve false information or alerts that can trick recipients into believing something that is untrue, such as warnings about non-existent security threats or claims about miraculous cures. These messages are usually crafted to provoke emotional reactions, leading individuals to share them with others, thus perpetuating the spread of misinformation through forwarding.

While spam is also associated with unwanted emails, it generally refers to unsolicited commercial messages rather than false claims. Phishing specifically targets individuals with the intent to steal sensitive information by posing as a legitimate entity, rather than spreading misleading information. Malware pertains to software designed to harm or exploit computers but does not categorize the act of forwarding false messages. Understanding the distinction between these terms helps in recognizing the nature of the threats individuals may encounter online.