Understanding Malware and Social Engineering

What is the primary purpose of malware?

• To improve computer performance

• To protect data from unauthorized access

• To disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems

• To enhance internet speed

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of malware is to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems. It is designed to harm or exploit systems, unlike the other options which suggest positive functions.

Which of the following is a common type of malware?

• Firewall

• Antivirus

• Trojan horse

• Router

Answer explanation

A Trojan horse is a common type of malware that disguises itself as legitimate software to trick users into installing it. Unlike firewalls and antivirus software, which protect against malware, a Trojan horse is a malicious program.

What is a computer virus?

• A type of software that repairs corrupted files

• A program that replicates itself and spreads to other computers

• A hardware device that prevents hacking

• A tool used to increase computer speed

Answer explanation

A computer virus is defined as a program that replicates itself and spreads to other computers, causing potential harm. The other options describe different software or hardware functions, not the nature of a virus.

(a)   is an example of social engineering.

• Installing antivirus software

• Phishing emails

• Using a strong password

• Updating software regularly

Answer explanation

Phishing emails are a form of social engineering where attackers trick individuals into revealing sensitive information. Unlike installing antivirus software or using strong passwords, phishing directly manipulates human behavior.

What is the main goal of social engineering attacks?

• To improve user experience

• To gain trust and manipulate individuals into revealing confidential information

• To enhance system performance

• To provide free software updates

Answer explanation

The main goal of social engineering attacks is to gain trust and manipulate individuals into revealing confidential information, making the correct answer the second choice.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a computer virus?

• Self-replicating

• Requires a host program to spread

• Can operate independently without a host

• Can cause harm to data and software

Answer explanation

A computer virus cannot operate independently without a host; it requires a host program to spread. The other options describe characteristics of viruses, such as being self-replicating and potentially causing harm.

Match the following scenarios with their corresponding actions.

• Securing sensitive information from unauthorized access

• Installing security patches

• Receiving a message from your bank asking for personal information

• Sending emails that appear to be from trusted sources

• Applying updates to fix vulnerabilities

• Sending legitimate software updates

• Updating your device with the latest features

• Encrypting data for protection

Which of the following is a preventive measure against malware?

• Opening email attachments from unknown sources

• Disabling antivirus software

• Regularly updating software and operating systems

• Sharing passwords with friends

Answer explanation

Regularly updating software and operating systems helps patch vulnerabilities that malware can exploit, making it a key preventive measure. The other options increase the risk of malware infection.

What is the difference between a worm and a virus?

• A worm requires a host program, while a virus does not.

• A virus requires a host program, while a worm does not.

• Both require a host program to spread.

• Neither can spread without user intervention.

Answer explanation

A virus attaches itself to a host program to spread, while a worm is a standalone malware that can replicate and spread independently without needing a host. Therefore, the correct choice is that a virus requires a host program, while a worm does not.

Which of the following is a sign of a potential phishing attack?

• Receiving an email from a known contact

• An email with poor grammar and spelling errors

• A message from your bank with your correct account details

• An email with a familiar company logo

Answer explanation

An email with poor grammar and spelling errors is a common sign of phishing attacks, as legitimate companies usually proofread their communications. The other options may appear legitimate and do not indicate a phishing attempt.