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SSCP Practice Question: Which TWO of the following are common indicators…
Which TWO of the following are common indicators of a ransomware attack?
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
✓
Files with .encrypted extension appearing in directories.
Options A and D are correct. Encrypted files with a new extension and the presence of a ransom note are classic signs of ransomware. Option B is incorrect because unusual outbound traffic may indicate command-and-control communication but is not specific to ransomware. Option C is incorrect because network latency typically increases during an attack, not decreases. Option E is incorrect because failed login attempts suggest brute-force, not ransomware.
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.
- ✗
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.
- ✗
System log entries showing failed login attempts.
Why it's wrong here
Failed logins are typical of brute-force attacks, not ransomware.
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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.