Quick Answer
The answer is rootkit installation, as the hidden directory `/usr/share/.syslog` containing a modified `sshd` binary and a log cleaner script directly demonstrates the technique used to erase tracks. Rootkits operate by replacing core system binaries like `sshd` to maintain persistent backdoor access, while the included log cleaner script actively scrubs audit trails, covering the attacker’s activity. On the Certified Ethical Hacker CEH exam, this scenario tests your ability to recognize post-exploitation persistence and evidence removal, often appearing in questions about Linux compromise or privilege escalation. A common trap is confusing this with simple log tampering or backdoor creation alone, but the combination of binary replacement and a dedicated cleaner is the hallmark of a rootkit. Memory tip: think “replace and erase” — rootkits swap binaries to stay hidden and use cleaners to vanish logs, making them the definitive tool for erasing tracks.
This CEH practice question tests your understanding of enumeration and system hacking. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A security analyst examines a compromised Linux server and finds a hidden directory `/usr/share/.syslog` containing a modified version of `sshd` and a log cleaner script. This is indicative of which technique used to erase tracks?
Token impersonation
Why wrong: Token impersonation is a Windows privilege escalation technique.
DLL injection
Why wrong: DLL injection is a Windows technique; this scenario involves Linux.
Rootkit installation
Correct. Rootkits replace system files to hide presence and log cleaners erase evidence.
Steganography
Why wrong: Steganography hides data within files, not replacing system binaries.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Rootkit installation
The presence of a hidden directory containing a modified `sshd` binary and a log cleaner script is a classic sign of a rootkit installation. Rootkits replace core system binaries (like `sshd`) to maintain backdoor access and use log cleaners to erase evidence of their activity, directly aligning with the technique of erasing tracks.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Token impersonation
Why it's wrong here
Token impersonation is a Windows privilege escalation technique.
DLL injection
Why it's wrong here
DLL injection is a Windows technique; this scenario involves Linux.
Rootkit installation
Why this is correct
Correct. Rootkits replace system files to hide presence and log cleaners erase evidence.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Steganography
Why it's wrong here
Steganography hides data within files, not replacing system binaries.
Common exam traps
EC-Council often tests the distinction between platform-specific techniques, and the trap here is that candidates may confuse rootkit installation with steganography because both involve 'hiding,' but steganography hides data, not system binaries or logs.
Trap categories for this question
Scenario analysis trap
DLL injection is a Windows technique; this scenario involves Linux.
Detailed technical explanation
Rootkits like the infamous 'SSHDoor' or 'Linux Rootkit' operate by replacing legitimate system binaries with trojaned versions that include backdoor credentials or remote access capabilities. The log cleaner script (e.g., `wzap` or `zap`) typically truncates or modifies log files such as `/var/log/auth.log` and `/var/log/syslog` to remove entries associated with the attacker's IP or commands, often using `sed` or direct file descriptor manipulation to avoid detection by `last` or `who` commands.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
What to study next
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FAQ
Enumeration and System Hacking — This question tests Enumeration and System Hacking — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Rootkit installation — The presence of a hidden directory containing a modified `sshd` binary and a log cleaner script is a classic sign of a rootkit installation. Rootkits replace core system binaries (like `sshd`) to maintain backdoor access and use log cleaners to erase evidence of their activity, directly aligning with the technique of erasing tracks.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
This CEH practice question is part of Courseiva's free EC-Council 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 CEH exam.
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