The correct answer is encrypted files with a new extension and a ransom note text file in each affected folder. These two indicators are the hallmark of a ransomware attack because the malware’s primary goal is to deny access to data by encrypting it, then demanding payment for the decryption key. The new file extension signals that the original data has been transformed, while the ransom note provides the attacker’s instructions for payment. On the Systems Security Certified Practitioner SSCP exam, this question tests your ability to distinguish ransomware-specific signs from general network anomalies—a common trap is confusing unusual outbound traffic or failed logins with ransomware, when those point to command-and-control or brute-force activity instead. Remember the memory tip: “Lock and Letter”—if you see locked files (new extension) and a letter (ransom note), it’s ransomware.
SSCP Systems and Application Security Practice Question
This SSCP practice question tests your understanding of systems and application security. 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 TWO of the following are common indicators of a ransomware attack?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Files with .encrypted extension appearing in directories.
Options B and D are correct. Encrypted files with a new extension and the presence of a ransom note are classic signs of ransomware. Option A is incorrect because unusual outbound traffic may indicate command-and-control communication but is not specific to ransomware. Option C is incorrect because failed login attempts suggest brute-force, not ransomware. Option E is incorrect because network latency typically increases during an attack, not decreases.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✓
Files with .encrypted extension appearing in directories.
Why this is correct
Ransomware often appends a custom extension to encrypted files.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Unusual outbound network traffic to unknown IPs.
Why it's wrong here
This could indicate many types of malware, not solely ransomware.
✗
Decreased network latency.
Why it's wrong here
Ransomware activities generally increase latency, not decrease it.
✓
A ransom note text file in each affected folder.
Why this is correct
Ransomware typically drops a ransom note with payment instructions.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
System log entries showing failed login attempts.
Why it's wrong here
Failed logins are typical of brute-force attacks, not ransomware.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
Use explanations to understand the rule behind the answer.
TExam Day Tips
→Underline the problem statement mentally.
→Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
→Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A security analyst at a medium-sized enterprise encounters this scenario during an investigation or architecture review. The correct answer reflects best practice for the specific threat or control described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Security exam questions test whether you can match controls to threats in context — not just recall definitions.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which SSCP exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Systems and Application Security — This question tests Systems and Application Security — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Files with .encrypted extension appearing in directories. — Options B and D are correct. Encrypted files with a new extension and the presence of a ransom note are classic signs of ransomware. Option A is incorrect because unusual outbound traffic may indicate command-and-control communication but is not specific to ransomware. Option C is incorrect because failed login attempts suggest brute-force, not ransomware. Option E is incorrect because network latency typically increases during an attack, not decreases.
What should I do if I get this SSCP question wrong?
Identify which SSCP exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Question Discussion
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