CC6 Vocab 2

What is the definition of Malware?

• A. A type of software designed to help users.

• B. Software that detects viruses.

• C. Malicious software intended to harm or exploit devices.

• D. A tool for improving computer performance.

Answer explanation

Malware, or malicious software, is specifically designed to harm or exploit devices, making option C the correct definition. The other options describe beneficial software or tools, which do not align with the nature of malware.

What does Phishing refer to?

• A. A method of catching fish online.

• B. Attempting to acquire sensitive information by pretending to be a trustworthy entity.

• C. The process of securing a network.

• D. A type of malware.

Answer explanation

Phishing is a cyber attack where attackers impersonate trustworthy entities to steal sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details. Therefore, the correct answer is B.

What is a Firewall?

• A. A device that prevents unauthorized access to or from a network.

• B. A program that removes malware.

• C. A type of computer virus.

• D. A tool for backing up data.

Answer explanation

A firewall is specifically designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a network, making option A the correct choice. Options B, C, and D describe different security tools or concepts, not firewalls.

What does Encryption do?

• A. Converts data into a format that is readable without a key.

• B. Secures data by converting it into a code.

• C. Increases the speed of data transfer.

• D. Removes unnecessary files from a computer.

Answer explanation

Encryption secures data by converting it into a code, making it unreadable without the appropriate key. This ensures that only authorized users can access the original information, which is why option B is correct.

What is Social Engineering?

• Using technology to enhance social interactions.

• Manipulating people into divulging confidential information.

• A field of study in engineering.

• The creation of social media applications.

Answer explanation

Social engineering refers to the manipulation of individuals to gain confidential information, making the correct choice "Manipulating people into divulging confidential information." The other options do not accurately define this concept.

What does Ransomware do?

• Helps secure data against attacks.

• Locks users out of their systems until a ransom is paid.

• Improves computer performance.

• Detects phishing attempts.

Answer explanation

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that locks users out of their systems, demanding a ransom for access. This makes the second choice the correct answer, as it accurately describes the primary function of ransomware.

What is a Virus in the context of computer security?

• A program designed to perform useful tasks.

• A self-replicating program that spreads from one computer to another.

• A security tool that prevents malware.

• A type of hardware component.

Answer explanation

A virus in computer security is defined as a self-replicating program that spreads from one computer to another, often causing harm. This distinguishes it from useful programs, security tools, or hardware components.

What is Two-Factor Authentication?

• A process that requires two different forms of identification to access an account.

• A method to encrypt data.

• A tool that tracks user activity.

• A type of software that enhances security.

Answer explanation

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security process that requires users to provide two different forms of identification, enhancing account security beyond just a password.

What is a Data Breach?

• Unauthorized access to confidential data.

• A method to improve data storage.

• A software update process.

• A strategy to manage data.

Answer explanation

A data breach refers to unauthorized access to confidential data, which can lead to the exposure of sensitive information. This definition clearly distinguishes it from methods of data storage, software updates, or data management strategies.

What is Spyware?

• Software designed to spy on user activity without consent.

• A program that protects against malware.

• A security tool for encrypting data.

• A type of computer virus.

Answer explanation

Spyware is specifically designed to monitor user activity without their consent, making the first choice the correct definition. The other options describe different types of software or security tools.