Match each type of malware to its primary behavior.
Drag a concept onto its matching description — or click a concept then click the description.
Attaches to files and spreads
Self-replicates without a host file
Disguised as legitimate software
Encrypts data for payment
Secretly monitors user activity
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Virus: Malware that replicates by attaching to other programs and requires user action to spread.
Common malware types include viruses (need host), worms (self-spreading), and trojans (deceptive). Distractors confuse their replication methods.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Virus: Malware that replicates by attaching to other programs and requires user action to spread.
Why this is correct
This is the correct definition of a virus; it requires a host program and user action to propagate.
Worm: Self-replicating malware that spreads automatically over networks without user action.
Why this is correct
This is the correct definition of a worm; it can spread independently without user interaction.
Trojan Horse: Malware disguised as legitimate software that does not replicate on its own.
Why this is correct
This is the correct definition of a trojan horse; it relies on deception rather than replication.
Virus: Self-replicating malware that spreads automatically over networks.
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect — this describes a worm, not a virus. Viruses require a host and user action.
Worm: Malware that replicates by attaching to other programs and requires user action.
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect — this describes a virus, not a worm. Worms spread automatically without attaching to programs.
Trojan Horse: Malware that replicates by attaching to other programs.
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect — this describes a virus, not a trojan. Trojans do not replicate; they camouflage as legitimate software.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CC practice question is part of Courseiva's free ISC2 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 CC exam.