Ethical Hacking Essentials Practice Test

What kind of attack was demonstrated when Rina encountered multiple warning windows about a virus?

1. Spam

2. Hoax

3. Phishing

4. Ransomware

The correct answer is: Hoax

The situation described, where Rina encountered multiple warning windows about a virus, aligns with the nature of a hoax. A hoax typically involves deceptive messages that create a false sense of urgency or fear regarding an impending threat, such as a virus infection, without any actual risk. These messages can be designed to trick users into believing their systems are compromised, often leading them to take unnecessary actions, such as downloading unrelated software or providing personal information. While ransomware and phishing are serious threats to cybersecurity, they represent different scenarios. Ransomware specifically entails malware that encrypts files and demands payment for access, which is not indicated in the scenario. Phishing involves deceptive emails or communications aimed at stealing sensitive information, which does not pertain to the warning windows about a virus. Spam refers to unsolicited messages and advertisements, which isn't the focal point in Rina’s experience either. Therefore, the warning signs Rina encountered serve as an example of a hoax crafted to mislead users rather than the more severe or specific attacks of ransomware or phishing.