Chapter 1.1

Question 1

Rootkit

Answer 1

A rootkit is backdoor malware that changes core system files and programming interfaces, so that local shell processes no longer reveal their presence.

Question 2

Spyware

Answer 2

Spyware is a program that monitors user activity and sends the information to someone else, with or without the user’s knowledge. One spyware technique is to spawn browser pop-up windows, as well as modify DNS queries attempting to direct the user to other websites, often of dubious provenance.

Question 3

Adware

Answer 3

Adware is any type of software that displays commercial offers and deals. Adware software can have a negative impact on performance and can include accepting a long license agreement

Question 4

Crypto-malware

Answer 4

Crypto-malware is a class of ransomware that attempts to encrypt data files. The user will be unable to access the files without obtaining the private encryption key, held by the attacker.

Question 5

Trojan

Answer 5

A Trojan is a malicious program hidden within an innocuous-seeming piece of software. Usually, the Trojan tries to compromise the security of the target computer.

Question 6

Rogueware

Answer 6

Rogueware is a fake antivirus, where a web pop-up claims to have detected viruses on the computer and prompts the user to initiate a full scan, which installs the attacker’s Trojan.

Question 7

Ransomware

Answer 7

Ransomware is a type of Trojan malware that tries to extort money from the victim. It will display threatening messages, stating the computer will remain locked until the ransom is paid.