easyMultiple SelectObjective-mapped
200-201 Practice Question: Which TWO of the following are characteristics of…
Which TWO of the following are characteristics of an advanced persistent threat (APT)?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between financially motivated threats (e.g., ransomware) and APTs, so the trap here is assuming that all persistent threats are driven by money rather than recognizing the espionage and state-sponsored nature of APTs.
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
✓
Operates with low and slow tactics to avoid detection
An advanced persistent threat (APT) is characterized by its use of low-and-slow tactics to evade detection over long periods. This involves spreading malicious activity across many small, seemingly benign actions to avoid triggering threshold-based alerts in security monitoring systems. APTs are also defined by their targeted nature, focusing on specific organizations for espionage or data theft rather than opportunistic, broad-scale attacks.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Operates with low and slow tactics to avoid detection
Why this is correct
APTs use stealthy methods to maintain long-term access.
- ✓
Targets specific organizations for espionage or data theft
Why this is correct
APTs are typically aimed at specific high-value targets for strategic objectives.
- ✗
Is typically financially motivated
Why it's wrong here
APTs are usually state-sponsored or focused on espionage, not direct financial gain.
- ✗
Uses only commodity malware
Why it's wrong here
APTs often use custom or tailored malware, not just commodity.
- ✗
Attacks are short-lived and quickly detected
Why it's wrong here
APTs are long-term campaigns that aim to avoid detection.
Go deeper
Related to this question
About these practice questions
One of 979 original 200-201 practice questions on Courseiva, each with a full explanation and wrong-answer analysis — not exam dumps or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
JA
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.