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SSCP Practice Question: Refer to the exhibit
Exhibit
Refer to the exhibit. ``` [Windows Security Log] Event ID: 4688 Process Name: C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe Command Line: cmd.exe /c "echo %USERNAME% && whoami" Parent Process: C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16\WINWORD.EXE ```
Refer to the exhibit. A security analyst observes this event on a workstation. What is the MOST likely explanation?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the distinction between legitimate system processes and obfuscated command execution, where candidates mistake encoded PowerShell commands for normal update or task operations instead of recognizing them as indicators of macro-based malware.
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
✓
A malicious macro in a Word document executed the command.
The event shows a command prompt launching with a base64-encoded PowerShell command, which is a common technique used by malicious macros to download and execute payloads. Microsoft Office macros can invoke cmd.exe or PowerShell to bypass security controls, and the encoded command suggests obfuscation typical of malware, not legitimate software updates or user actions.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Microsoft Office is performing an automatic update.
Why it's wrong here
Updates do not typically spawn cmd.exe with whoami.
- ✗
A scheduled task triggered the command.
Why it's wrong here
No indication of a scheduled task; parent process is Word.
- ✗
A user ran a legitimate command from the Start menu.
Why it's wrong here
The parent process is WINWORD, not explorer.
- ✓
A malicious macro in a Word document executed the command.
Why this is correct
Macros can execute shell commands; this is a common attack vector.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This SSCP 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 SSCP exam.