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 covertly collects user activity and browsing data; it does not typically generate the flood of pop-up advertisements described, which points to adware. It is tempting because spyware and adware are both unwanted programs often bundled together, and spyware would be correct if the symptom were keystroke logging or credential theft.
- ✗
Ransomware
Why it's wrong here
Ransomware encrypts files and demands payment, producing inaccessible data rather than persistent pop-up advertising. It is tempting because it is the most publicised malware category and also degrades a machine's usability, but it would be the correct answer if the user reported locked files and a ransom note.
- ✗
Rootkit
Why it's wrong here
A rootkit hides itself and other malware deep in the operating system to evade detection; it does not itself display pop-up ads. It is tempting because rootkits often accompany other infections and explain sluggish performance, and it would be correct if the analyst found concealed processes or altered system binaries.
- ✓
Adware
Why this is correct
Adware specifically injects unwanted advertisements and pop-ups into the user's browsing or desktop environment, which directly matches the symptoms described. Unlike ransomware or worms, adware's primary payload is persistent advertising delivery, and the resulting background processes and browser injections also consume CPU and memory, explaining the reported slowdown.
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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 is malware that automatically displays or downloads unwanted advertisements, often bundled with free software from untrusted sources. The symptom described—frequent pop-up ads after installing a free game—matches adware's defining behavior. Unlike spyware, adware's primary goal is forced advertising rather than covert data collection.
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.