What term describes when a hacker successfully exploits a vulnerability to gain access to files on a computer or network?

What term describes when a hacker successfully exploits a vulnerability to gain access to files on a computer or network?

• A. Breach
• B. Hacking
• C. Phishing
• D. Ransomware

Answer: (A)

Gaining access to files after successfully exploiting a vulnerability is a breach. A breach is the unauthorized access or exposure of data or systems that results from bypassing security controls, precisely describing the outcome of using a vulnerability to reach files. Hacking is a broader term for breaking into systems and isn’t limited to the specific result of accessing files. Phishing is a tactic that tricks people into revealing credentials, not directly exploiting a vulnerability in the system to reach files. Ransomware is malware that encrypts files after access, focusing on the consequence and threat rather than the act of gaining access itself.

Gaining access to files after successfully exploiting a vulnerability is a breach. A breach is the unauthorized access or exposure of data or systems that results from bypassing security controls, precisely describing the outcome of using a vulnerability to reach files.

Hacking is a broader term for breaking into systems and isn’t limited to the specific result of accessing files. Phishing is a tactic that tricks people into revealing credentials, not directly exploiting a vulnerability in the system to reach files. Ransomware is malware that encrypts files after access, focusing on the consequence and threat rather than the act of gaining access itself.