FC0-U71 Security Practice Question
A security analyst notices that a user's computer is running slowly and displaying many pop-up ads. Which type of malware is most likely causing this?
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
✓
Adware
Adware displays unwanted advertisements and often causes performance issues. Spyware collects information, ransomware encrypts files, and a rootkit hides itself.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Spyware
Why it's wrong here
Spyware collects data but typically does not display ads.
- ✗
Ransomware
Why it's wrong here
Ransomware encrypts files and demands payment.
- ✗
Rootkit
Why it's wrong here
Rootkit hides its presence and is not associated with ads.
- ✓
Adware
Why this is correct
Adware displays pop-up ads and can slow down the system.
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Same concept, more angles
2 more ways this is tested on FC0-U71
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. A user downloads a free game from an untrusted website. After installation, the user's computer begins displaying pop-up advertisements frequently. Which type of malware is most likely installed?
medium- A.Ransomware
- ✓ B.Adware
- C.Rootkit
- D.Spyware
Why B: Adware displays unwanted advertisements, often bundled with free software.
Variation 2. A user reports that their computer has been displaying unwanted pop-up advertisements frequently. Which type of malware is most likely responsible?
medium- A.Ransomware
- ✓ B.Adware
- C.Spyware
- D.Rootkit
Why B: Adware displays unwanted advertisements, often in pop-ups or banners.
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This FC0-U71 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA 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 FC0-U71 exam.