The answer is adware, as the combination of persistent pop-up ads even when no browser is open and an unauthorized search engine hijack are textbook symptoms of this malware type. Adware is specifically designed to generate revenue through unwanted advertisements, often by injecting ad scripts into system processes and modifying browser settings like the default search engine and homepage without user consent. On the CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1202 exam, this scenario tests your ability to differentiate adware from other malware such as viruses or worms, which typically replicate or require a host file; a common trap is confusing adware with a browser hijacker, but adware’s hallmark is pop-ups outside the browser. To lock in the concept, remember the mnemonic “P.A.S.”—Pop-ups, Ads, Search hijack—as the three red flags that point directly to adware.
220-1202 Malware Types and Removal Practice Question
This 220-1202 practice question tests your understanding of malware types and removal. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A user reports that their system is running very slowly, and they see frequent pop-up ads even when no browser is open. They also notice that their default search engine has changed without their permission. Which type of malware is most likely causing these symptoms?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "most likely"
Why it matters: Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Adware
Adware is designed to display unwanted advertisements and can modify browser settings, causing pop-ups and search engine hijacking. Unlike a virus or worm, adware does not typically replicate itself or require a host file to spread. The symptoms described—pop-ups outside the browser and unauthorized search engine changes—are classic signs of adware infection.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Virus
Why it's wrong here
A virus attaches to executable files and replicates, but it does not typically cause pop-up ads or change search engines directly.
✓
Adware
Why this is correct
Adware is known for displaying unwanted advertisements and modifying browser settings, matching the user's symptoms.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "most likely" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Ransomware
Why it's wrong here
Ransomware encrypts files and demands payment, not causing pop-up ads or search engine changes.
✗
Rootkit
Why it's wrong here
A rootkit hides malicious processes and provides persistent access, but it does not produce pop-up ads or alter search engines.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
Use explanations to understand the rule behind the answer.
TExam Day Tips
→Underline the problem statement mentally.
→Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
→Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the 220-1202 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this 220-1202 question in full detail.
Identify which 220-1202 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Malware Types and Removal — This question tests Malware Types and Removal — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Adware — Adware is designed to display unwanted advertisements and can modify browser settings, causing pop-ups and search engine hijacking. Unlike a virus or worm, adware does not typically replicate itself or require a host file to spread. The symptoms described—pop-ups outside the browser and unauthorized search engine changes—are classic signs of adware infection.
What should I do if I get this 220-1202 question wrong?
Identify which 220-1202 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Are there clue words in this question I should notice?
Yes — watch for: "most likely". Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Question Discussion
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