Ethical Hacking Essentials Practice Test

What type of attack vector aims to steal information without the victim's awareness while delivering harmful payloads?

1. APT Attack

2. Phishing Attack

3. Social Engineering Attack

4. Transitive Attack

The correct answer is: APT Attack

The appropriate choice identifies an Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) attack as a sophisticated and stealthy form of cyber threat. APT attacks are characterized by their long-term, targeted nature, aiming to infiltrate networks undetected and exfiltrate sensitive information over an extended duration. Attackers may use various techniques to gain initial access, often leveraging zero-day vulnerabilities or other subtle means to bypass security measures. Once inside the network, they establish a foothold, blending in with legitimate user activity to avoid detection while they navigate the system and gather data. Unlike phishing, which typically involves a more immediate and recognizable exploit through deceptive communication, or social engineering, which manipulates individuals into disclosing confidential information, APT attacks involve meticulously planned strategies. These can include the use of malware that operates undetected and the use of advanced evasion tactics to stay under the radar of security tools. Transitive attacks refer to vulnerabilities in interconnected systems that can be exploited indirectly. While valid in a broader context of cybersecurity, they do not specifically align with the notion of stealthily acquiring information while deploying harmful payloads without raising alarms. In summary, the nature of an APT attack encapsulates the essence of stealth and prolonged threat execution, making it the most fitting choice regarding the question