Ethical Hacking Essentials Practice Test

What characterizes the malware known as scareware?

1. It infects systems with viruses directly.

2. It tricks users into visiting malicious websites.

3. It encrypts files for ransom.

4. It steals passwords directly from browsers.

The correct answer is: It tricks users into visiting malicious websites.

Scareware is characterized primarily by its tactic of deceiving users into believing their systems are infected with malware or that there is a critical issue that needs immediate attention. This psychological manipulation typically leads users to visit malicious websites or download harmful software under the impression they are resolving a problem. The chosen answer reflects this characteristic of scareware, which often employs alarming notifications or pop-up messages that create fear, prompting users to act impulsively. This is distinct from other types of malware that might involve direct infection with viruses, engaging in the encryption of files for ransom, or stealing passwords directly from browsers. Each of those functionalities represents different malicious intents and operations that do not encapsulate the primary deceptive mechanism of scareware, which hinges on fear and urgency rather than direct aggressive actions.