200-201 Host-Based Analysis Practice Question
A forensic analyst uses Volatility on a memory dump and runs the 'malfind' plugin. The output shows a process with a VAD region that has PAGE_EXECUTE_READWRITE protection and contains the pattern 'MZ'. What does this indicate?
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
✓
The process has been infected with code injection, likely a PE executable mapped in memory.
PAGE_EXECUTE_READWRITE protection combined with 'MZ' header suggests code injection, where a malicious executable has been written into the process memory.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
The process has been infected with code injection, likely a PE executable mapped in memory.
Why this is correct
Malfind detects injected code by finding executable regions with PE headers.
- ✗
The process is using a packed executable that was unpacked in memory.
Why it's wrong here
Packing usually does not result in RWX regions with 'MZ' unless injected.
- ✗
The process has a heap spray attack, but not necessarily injected code.
Why it's wrong here
Heap spray typically uses ROP chains or shellcode, not full PE headers.
- ✗
The process is a legitimate browser with dynamic code.
Why it's wrong here
Browsers may have RWX regions, but the 'MZ' header strongly indicates an injected PE.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This 200-201 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Cisco certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 200-201 exam.