Which infection type displays a message and .ryk file extension?
An administrator finds that all user workstations and servers are displaying a message that is associated with files containing an extension of .ryk. Which of the following types of infections is present on the systems?
Community Votes
100% of anonymous learners picked answer D. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.
Community Insight
The key is recognizing that ransomware encrypts files and shows a ransom message, often appending a distinctive extension like .ryk to encrypted files.
This question asks which infection is indicated by .ryk file extensions and a display message. Community consensus strongly identifies ransomware, specifically the Ryuk family.
A common mistake is choosing Virus, but a virus does not typically display a ransom message or rename file extensions; the .ryk extension and message are hallmarks of ransomware.
Community Discussion (3 comments)
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Expert Analysis
Why the Answer Is Correct
Ransomware is designed to encrypt files on a victim's system and then display a message demanding payment for decryption. The .ryk extension is a known indicator of Ryuk, a specific ransomware variant. This matches the scenario of a message appearing alongside files with that extension.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
A virus is malicious code that replicates, but it does not necessarily encrypt files or display a ransom message. A trojan disguises itself as legitimate software but does not inherently cause a mass file extension change with a ransom note. Spyware is designed to capture information silently, not to encrypt files or display a message demanding payment.
Community Comment Notes
One commenter noted that only ransomware would display a message to the victim and that .ryk is the extension for Ryuk ransomware. Another elaborated that ransomware encrypts files and renames them with specific extensions, and .ryk indicates Ryuk's compromise. These comments align with the 100% vote for option D.
Official Reference
Exam Strategy
For malware-type questions, focus on the distinguishing behavior. If encrypted files and a ransom note are mentioned, always choose ransomware. Look for known extensions like .ryk, .locky, or .crypt to confirm the type.
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