CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71)SecurityEasy
A user reports slow computer performance, unexpected pop-up ads, and system crashes. Upon investigation, a technician finds several unknown programs running in the background and modified browser settings. Which type of malware is MOST likely causing these issues?
- AAdware
- BRansomware
- CWorm
- DRootkit
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Adware
Adware is specifically designed to display unwanted advertisements and often comes bundled with other software, leading to pop-ups and performance issues.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Ransomware encrypts files and demands payment, which is not described by the symptoms.
- C. Worms are self-replicating malware that spread across networks, but the symptoms described are more indicative of adware's direct impact on the user interface and performance.
- D. Rootkits hide their presence and often provide backdoor access, but typically don't cause pop-ups or obvious performance degradation in this manner.
Adware
Software that automatically displays or downloads unwanted advertisements on a computer, often bundled with other programs and leading to pop-ups and system slowdowns.
- Displays unwanted ads (pop-ups, banners)
- Often bundled with free software
- Can degrade system performance
Memory trick: Malware's a menace, know its many faces.