While reviewing workstation performance, a technician notices one of the PCs is generating a sudden spike in outbound network traffic even though no new software has been installed and Windows Update is paused. Which observation would be the BEST indicator that the system could be infected with malware?
Increased fan noise while playing a graphics-intensive game
Slower file-copy speeds immediately after replacing the HDD with an SSD
Unexplained spike in network traffic when the system is idle
Shorter battery life after raising the screen brightness to maximum
Unexplained or continuous outbound network activity when the computer is idle-and no legitimate updates are expected-is a classic sign of malware that may be phoning home to command-and-control servers or exfiltrating data. Increased fan noise during a graphics-intensive game, reduced battery life after raising screen brightness, or slower transfer speeds following a hardware change all have straightforward, non-malicious explanations and therefore are weaker indicators of infection.
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