Ethical Hacking Essentials Practice Test

What technique did Jack employ to distribute malware via a malicious hyperlink?

1. Spear-phishing

2. Social engineered click-jacking

3. File sharing

4. Spam emails

The correct answer is: Social engineered click-jacking

The correct choice of social engineered click-jacking involves a technique where an individual is tricked into clicking on a hyperlink that appears benign but ultimately leads to the distribution of malware. In this scenario, the malicious hyperlink is hidden or disguised in such a way that the victim is unaware of the danger involved in clicking it. Click-jacking relies on manipulating the user's interface, often by overlaying invisible web elements, making it seem like the user is clicking on a legitimate action while actually clicking a hidden link that can initiate the download of malware or take them to a compromised site. This method is particularly effective because it exploits human trust and curiosity, which can lead users to unintentionally execute harmful actions. In contrast, the other methods listed, such as spear-phishing, which is highly targeted email attacks aimed at specific individuals or organizations, and spam emails, which are often generic and sent to a large number of recipients without targeting, do not specifically involve the deceptive interface manipulation characteristic of click-jacking. File sharing typically involves sharing files directly rather than embedding harmful links in an interface designed to deceive users. Understanding these distinctions highlights why social engineered click-jacking is the appropriate choice in the context of distributing malware through a hyperlink.