SY0-701 Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations Practice Question
Exhibit
Task Scheduler entry on FIN-SRV2:
Task Name: MonthlyCleanup
Trigger: 12/31/2026 18:00
Action: powershell.exe -ExecutionPolicy Bypass -File C:\Users\Public\cleanup.ps1
Script contents:
if ($env:USERNAME -eq 'j.smith') { Remove-Item C:\Finance\Archive\* -Recurse -Force }
Security note: The script was added by a former contractor before departure.Based on the exhibit, what type of malware is most likely present?
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often confuse a logic bomb with a worm because both can cause damage, but they fail to recognize that a logic bomb requires a specific trigger condition and does not self-replicate, unlike a worm which spreads automatically.
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
✓
Logic bomb
The exhibit shows a script that checks for a specific employee name and, if the condition is met, deletes critical system files. This is a classic logic bomb: malicious code embedded in a legitimate program that executes when predefined conditions (e.g., a specific user, date, or event) are satisfied. Logic bombs do not self-replicate or continuously spy; they lie dormant until triggered.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Logic bomb
Why this is correct
The malicious action is set to occur only when a specific condition is met, in this case a date trigger and a username check. That makes it a logic bomb. Logic bombs stay hidden until a trigger event occurs, then they execute destructive or unauthorized actions such as deleting files.
- ✗
Worm
Why it's wrong here
A worm is a self-contained malicious program that replicates and spreads to other systems automatically, typically by exploiting network services, email, or removable media. The exhibit depicts a scheduled task that launches a destructive script only when a specific date and username match, with no apparent propagation or network-spreading functionality. Since the artifact lacks any self-replication or lateral movement mechanism, it does not qualify as worm behavior.
- ✗
Spyware
Why it's wrong here
Spyware is designed to covertly monitor user activity and collect sensitive data such as keystrokes, browsing habits, credentials, or screen captures, usually for exfiltration to an attacker. The exhibited script is instead a destructive payload that deletes user files once its logical trigger conditions are met; there is no indication of data gathering, keystroke logging, or a communication channel to transmit stolen information. Thus, the behavior aligns with a logic bomb rather than spyware.
- ✗
Rootkit
Why it's wrong here
A rootkit is a stealth mechanism that provides an attacker with continued privileged access by hiding files, processes, or registry keys, often by hooking or patching operating system internals. The evidence in the exhibit focuses on a timing- and username-based condition that, when satisfied, deletes files—not on concealment of malicious artifacts or escalation of privilege. While a logic bomb can be combined with rootkit techniques, the exhibit's trigger-based destruction is the defining characteristic, so rootkit is not the most likely classification.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Malware Types and Characteristics
Key term
Logic bomb
A logic bomb is a piece of malicious code that lies dormant inside a system until a specific condition or event triggers it to execute harmful actions.
Key term
Malware
Malware is any software intentionally designed to cause damage, disrupt operations, steal data, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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