Quick Answer
The correct answer is Executing applications, as it is one of the core phases in the CHPSET system hacking methodology, which stands for Cracking, Hiding, Privilege Escalation, Spying, Executing, and Targeting. This methodology outlines the structured steps an attacker follows after initial compromise, where the Executing phase involves running malicious payloads or applications to maintain access and achieve objectives, such as installing backdoors or launching further attacks. On the Certified Ethical Hacker CEH exam, this concept tests your understanding of the full attack lifecycle, often appearing in scenario-based questions that ask you to sequence or identify phases; a common trap is confusing Executing with the earlier Targeting or Sniffing phases. To remember the order, think of the mnemonic “CHPSET” as a checklist: after hiding files and escalating privileges, the attacker must execute their tools to complete the mission, making Executing applications the pivotal action phase.
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.
Which THREE of the following are components of the CHPSET system hacking methodology? (Select three.)
Sniffing network traffic
Why wrong: Sniffing is not part of CHPSET.
Hiding files
H is for Hiding.
Cracking passwords
C is for Cracking.
Scanning ports
Why wrong: Scanning is not part of CHPSET.
Executing applications
E is for Executing.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Hiding files
B is correct because 'Hiding files' is a key phase in the CHPSET (Cracking, Hiding, Privilege Escalation, Sniffing, Executing, Targeting) system hacking methodology. After gaining access and escalating privileges, the attacker must hide malicious files, processes, or evidence to avoid detection by security tools or administrators. This step often involves techniques like file attribute manipulation, rootkits, or steganography to conceal the presence of the attacker on the compromised system.
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.
Sniffing network traffic
Why it's wrong here
Sniffing is not part of CHPSET.
Hiding files
Why this is correct
H is for Hiding.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Cracking passwords
Why this is correct
C is for Cracking.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Scanning ports
Why it's wrong here
Scanning is not part of CHPSET.
Executing applications
Why this is correct
E is for Executing.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
EC-Council often tests the distinction between pre-exploitation phases (scanning, sniffing) and the actual system hacking methodology (CHPSET), so candidates mistakenly select 'Sniffing network traffic' or 'Scanning ports' because they associate them with hacking, but they are not part of the CHPSET steps.
Detailed technical explanation
The CHPSET methodology is a mnemonic for the steps an attacker takes after gaining initial access: Cracking (password cracking), Hiding (concealing files/processes), Privilege Escalation, Sniffing (local traffic capture), Executing (running malicious code), and Targeting (identifying further targets). Under the hood, hiding files may involve using NTFS alternate data streams (ADS) on Windows or modifying file timestamps via tools like `touch` on Linux to evade forensic analysis. In real-world scenarios, attackers often combine hiding with privilege escalation to maintain persistent, undetected access.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A junior network technician can log in to a core router but cannot reach the enable prompt or configuration mode. The AAA server is authenticating the login — but the authorisation policy only grants privilege level 1, not 15. Authentication (who you are) is working; authorisation (what you can do) is not.
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: Hiding files — B is correct because 'Hiding files' is a key phase in the CHPSET (Cracking, Hiding, Privilege Escalation, Sniffing, Executing, Targeting) system hacking methodology. After gaining access and escalating privileges, the attacker must hide malicious files, processes, or evidence to avoid detection by security tools or administrators. This step often involves techniques like file attribute manipulation, rootkits, or steganography to conceal the presence of the attacker on the compromised system.
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.
About these practice questions
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Same concept, more angles
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. Which THREE of the following are components of the CHPSET system hacking methodology?
hardWhy C: Options A, B, and E are correct. CHPSET stands for Cracking passwords, Hiding files, Privilege escalation, Executing applications, Spying, and Erasing tracks.
Variation 2. In the context of system hacking methodology (CHPSET), which phase involves hiding malicious files from the operating system and security tools using techniques such as NTFS alternate data streams (ADS) or steganography?
mediumWhy C: CHPSET: Cracking, Hiding, Privilege escalation, Executing, Spying, Erasing tracks. Hiding files involves techniques like ADS or steganography to conceal malicious files.
Variation 3. In the context of system hacking methodology (CHPSET), which phase involves removing evidence of the attacker's activities from logs and system files?
easyWhy C: Erasing tracks is the final phase where attackers cover their tracks by manipulating logs, deleting files, or using rootkits.
Variation 4. Which phase of the system hacking methodology (CHPSET) involves hiding files from the operating system using techniques such as rootkits or steganography?
mediumWhy D: The 'Hiding files' phase of the CHPSET (Cracking passwords, Hacking, Privilege escalation, Spying, Erasing tracks, Executing applications, Hiding files) methodology involves concealing malicious files from the operating system and security tools. Techniques such as rootkits (which hook system calls like NtQueryDirectoryFile to hide files from directory listings) and steganography (embedding data within innocent files like images or audio) are used to avoid detection. This phase directly follows 'Executing applications' and ensures the attacker's payload remains persistent and covert.
Variation 5. During a penetration test, you execute the command `enum4linux -a 192.168.1.20`. The output reveals that the 'backup' account has a blank password and belongs to the 'Domain Admins' group. Which phase of the CHPSET methodology does identifying this vulnerability belong to?
mediumWhy B: The command `enum4linux -a` enumerates SMB shares, users, and password policies from a Windows target. Discovering that the 'backup' account has a blank password directly identifies a weak or missing credential, which falls under the 'Cracking passwords' phase of the CHPSET methodology. This phase involves identifying and exploiting weak, default, or blank passwords to gain unauthorized access.
Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
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