FC0-U71 Security Practice Question
Which type of malware attaches to legitimate files and spreads when those files are executed?
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
✓
Virus
A virus attaches itself to files or programs and replicates when the infected file is executed. Worms spread without a host file; trojans disguise as legitimate software.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Ransomware
Why it's wrong here
Ransomware encrypts files and demands payment; it does not attach itself to legitimate files or spread through their execution. It is tempting because both are malware categories, but ransomware's propagation mechanism is separate from file infection. A virus is the correct answer for file-attached, execution-triggered spread.
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Virus
Why this is correct
A virus inserts its code into legitimate host files, so execution of the infected file triggers replication and further spread. This directly satisfies the stem's requirement for malware that attaches to legitimate files, unlike worms, which self-replicate across networks without a host file.
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Worm
Why it's wrong here
A worm self-replicates across networks without attaching to host files or requiring user execution. It is tempting because worms spread rapidly like file infections, but the mechanism differs: worms exploit network services, whereas file-attached malware needs a host file executed. A virus matches the stem's description.
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Trojan
Why it's wrong here
A Trojan disguises itself as legitimate software but does not attach to existing files or spread through their execution. It is tempting because Trojans involve legitimate-looking files, yet they are standalone delivery vehicles, not infectors. A virus is the malware type that binds to host files and spreads when executed.
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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.