Question 1hardmultiple choice
Full question →hardmultiple choiceObjective-mapped
A Linux server is missing expected security-agent processes, but users can still connect to the application. Local command output does not show a suspicious daemon that another monitoring tool says is listening on port 4444. A raw disk scan reveals a kernel module loaded at boot, and several files appear only when viewed outside the normal operating system tools. What malware type is most likely?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Good practice is not just finding the correct option. The wrong answers often show the exact trap the exam wants you to fall into.
A
Distractor review
Trojan, because it could have introduced the suspicious service after the initial compromise.
A trojan can deliver a payload, but the key symptom here is concealment from normal tools through kernel-level tampering, which is more specific than a generic trojan infection.
B
Distractor review
Spyware, because it may collect data while leaving the application functional.
Spyware focuses on stealthy collection or exfiltration. The scenario instead emphasizes hidden processes, hidden files, and a kernel module that alters what the operating system reports.
C
Best answer
Rootkit, because kernel-level components are hiding processes and files from normal user-mode visibility.
A rootkit is the best answer because the evidence points to concealment at the operating system level. A kernel module loaded at boot, missing processes in standard listings, and files visible only through raw disk examination all indicate malicious hiding behavior. Rootkits are designed to obscure other malware or unauthorized access, making them especially dangerous and difficult to detect with normal administrative tools.
D
Distractor review
Logic bomb, because the malware activates after startup and changes what administrators see.
A logic bomb activates when a specific condition is met, such as a date or event. This scenario focuses on persistent concealment and kernel manipulation, not a timed or condition-triggered payload.
Common exam trap
Common exam trap: NAT rules depend on direction and matching traffic
NAT is not only about the public address. The inside/outside interface roles and the ACL or rule that matches traffic are just as important.
Technical deep dive
How to think about this question
NAT questions usually test address translation, overload/PAT behaviour, static mappings and whether the right traffic is being translated. Read the interface direction and address terms carefully.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
- PAT allows many inside hosts to share one public address using ports.
- Inside local and inside global describe the private and translated addresses.
- NAT ACLs identify traffic for translation, not always security filtering.
TExam Day Tips
- Identify inside and outside interfaces first.
- Check whether the scenario needs static NAT, dynamic NAT or PAT.
- Do not confuse NAT matching ACLs with normal packet-filtering intent.
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More questions from this exam
Keep practising from the same exam bank, or move into a focused topic page if this question exposed a weak area.
Question 1
A laptop is suspected of being used in a malware incident. It is still powered on and connected to Wi-Fi. What should the responder do before shutting it down?
Question 2
An employee reports a ransomware note on a file server. The server is still powered on, shares are still being accessed, and management wants service restored as quickly as possible. What should the incident response team do first?
Question 3
An employee reports a ransomware note on a finance laptop. The laptop is still powered on, connected to Wi-Fi, and the user says they were just working in a spreadsheet. Management wants the fastest safe response that also preserves evidence. What should the responder do first?
Question 4
You are handed a company laptop suspected in an insider theft case. Legal says the evidence may be needed in court. Which action best preserves admissibility?
Question 5
A developer wants to reduce the risk of SQL injection in a new customer search form. Which two changes are the best mitigations? Select two.
Question 6
A branch office uses a flat LAN, and a compromise on one user workstation could spread quickly to finance systems. Management wants finance workstations isolated from general users, but finance staff still need access to a central finance application and network printer. What is the best design change?
FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this SY0-701 question test?
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Rootkit, because kernel-level components are hiding processes and files from normal user-mode visibility. — A rootkit is the best fit because the attacker is hiding processes and files from normal OS-level tools while maintaining persistence through a boot-loaded kernel module. That combination is a hallmark of rootkit behavior. The raw disk scan still seeing artifacts is important: it suggests the data exists, but the running system is intentionally concealing it from standard utilities and admins. Why others are wrong: A trojan is a delivery mechanism or disguise, not necessarily a hiding layer inside the kernel. Spyware could explain silent data collection, but it does not explain missing processes and hidden files. A logic bomb requires a trigger condition and does not inherently involve kernel-level stealth or manipulation of system listings.
What should I do if I get this SY0-701 question wrong?
Then try more questions from the same exam bank and focus on understanding why the wrong options are tempting.
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