350-701 Security Concepts Practice Question
An attacker uses Shodan to discover internet-facing ICS devices and then performs banner grabbing. This is an example of which type of attack?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Passive OSINT
Passive OSINT involves collecting publicly available information without directly interacting with the target. Banner grabbing is active scanning, but the question emphasizes the initial passive phase. However, Shodan is a passive OSINT tool.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Social engineering
Why it's wrong here
Social engineering manipulates people, not device discovery.
- ✗
Active reconnaissance
Why it's wrong here
Active reconnaissance involves direct interaction, but Shodan uses publicly available data, which is passive.
- ✗
Exploitation
Why it's wrong here
Exploitation involves taking advantage of vulnerabilities, not just discovery.
- ✓
Passive OSINT
Why this is correct
Shodan is a search engine for internet-connected devices; using it without direct interaction is passive OSINT.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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