A company's network administrator has discovered a system that is exhibiting erratic behavior, including slow performance and repeated crashes. After performing a system scan, the administrator found unauthorized software running with system-level privileges. Which type of malware is MOST likely responsible for these symptoms?
This system is most likely infected by a rootkit aiming to obtain elevated privileges while avoiding detection.
This system is most likely experiencing the effects of a logic bomb that has been activated and is disrupting system performance.
This system is most likely compromised due to a keylogger that is monitoring and transmitting keyboard input, causing system instability.
This system is most likely infected by ransomware which is encrypting files, resulting in performance issues and system crashes.
Rootkits are designed to obtain unauthorized root or administrative access to a computer system while concealing their existence. The symptoms of slow performance, repeated crashes, and unauthorized software running with elevated privileges are indicative of rootkit behavior, as rootkits often attempt to hide their processes, files, and system data to evade detection while maintaining persistent access to the system.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What is a rootkit and how does it work?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
Why do rootkits require elevated privileges, and how do they get them?