Question 1mediummultiple choice
Full question →mediummultiple choiceObjective-mapped
A workstation starts failing security checks. The antivirus service no longer appears in the running process list, a known driver's hash does not match the vendor's value, and a task manager view shows fewer processes than expected. The user also reports that local admin tools behave inconsistently. What type of malware is most likely present?
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
Spyware
Spyware focuses on collecting information quietly, but it does not usually hide system objects or manipulate low-level process visibility.
B
Best answer
Rootkit
A rootkit is designed to hide malicious activity and maintain stealth by manipulating operating system internals, drivers, or kernel components. Missing processes and hash mismatches support that conclusion.
C
Distractor review
Trojan
A trojan is malware disguised as legitimate software, but the symptoms here emphasize concealment after compromise rather than initial masquerading.
D
Distractor review
Logic bomb
A logic bomb triggers on a specific condition or date, but the described stealth and system hiding behavior do not fit that model.
Common exam trap
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Technical deep dive
How to think about this question
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
- Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
- Use explanations to understand the rule behind the answer.
TExam Day Tips
- Underline the problem statement mentally.
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
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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?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Rootkit — A rootkit is the best answer because the indicators point to malware that hides itself and interferes with normal operating system visibility. Missing processes, unexpected driver hash changes, and inconsistent administrative tool behavior strongly suggest low-level tampering. Rootkits often operate in kernel or driver space, allowing them to conceal files, processes, or network activity from common security tools. That stealth makes them especially dangerous to investigate. Why others are wrong: Spyware is built to steal information, not primarily to hide kernel-level artifacts or alter process visibility. A trojan is about deception at the delivery stage, such as pretending to be a useful app. A logic bomb needs a trigger event before it acts, whereas this scenario shows active stealth and interference already occurring.
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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