Information Technology Specialist (ITS) Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What type of malware is characterized as an advanced persistent threat (APT)?

1. Ransomware

2. Rootkit

3. Spyware

4. Worm

The correct answer is: Rootkit

The correct answer is rooted in the characteristics that define advanced persistent threats (APTs). APTs are sophisticated, targeted cyberattacks that leverage a combination of stealth and persistence to infiltrate and remain within a network undetected for extended periods. Rootkits are a type of malware that are specifically designed to gain unauthorized access to a computer while concealing their existence. They can alter the operating system to obscure their presence and activities from detection tools, making them particularly effective for an APT scenario. Once a rootkit is installed, it can facilitate further attacks, data exfiltration, and the maintenance of a foothold within the targeted environment, all hallmarks of advanced persistent threats. In contrast, other forms of malware such as ransomware, spyware, and worms have different characteristics. Ransomware typically encrypts files and demands payment, often used in more opportunistic attacks rather than persistent threats. Spyware focuses on gathering information from the infected system rather than maintaining prolonged access, and worms spread across networks and systems independently, operating more in a self-replicating fashion than the stealthy persistence required in APT scenarios. Thus, the nature of rootkits aligns them closely with the tactics used in APTs, making them the correct answer.