CAS-004 Security Operations Practice Question
A security analyst is using the MITRE ATT&CK framework to categorize adversary behavior observed in recent incidents. The analyst notes that the adversary used spearphishing with a malicious attachment to gain initial access, then executed a PowerShell script to download additional tools. Which ATT&CK tactic is the PowerShell execution associated with?
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
✓
Execution
Execution is the tactic that covers techniques that result in adversary-controlled code running on a system. PowerShell execution is a common technique under the Execution tactic.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Defense Evasion
Why it's wrong here
Defense Evasion involves avoiding detection, not execution.
- ✓
Execution
Why this is correct
Execution involves running malicious code.
- ✗
Initial Access
Why it's wrong here
Initial Access involves gaining entry, not running code.
- ✗
Command and Control
Why it's wrong here
Command and Control involves communication with adversary systems.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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