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SY0-501 · Question #233

A black hat hacker is enumerating a network and wants to remain convert during the process. The hacker initiates a vulnerability scan. Given the task at hand the requirement of being convert, which…

The correct answer is C. The vulnerability scanner is performing in network sniffer mode. To remain covert during network enumeration and vulnerability scanning, a black hat hacker should employ methods that minimize active interaction with target systems.

Submitted by mike_84· Mar 4, 2026Threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigations

Question

A black hat hacker is enumerating a network and wants to remain convert during the process. The hacker initiates a vulnerability scan. Given the task at hand the requirement of being convert, which of the following statements BEST indicates that the vulnerability scan meets these requirements?

Options

  • AThe vulnerability scanner is performing an authenticated scan.
  • BThe vulnerability scanner is performing local file integrity checks.
  • CThe vulnerability scanner is performing in network sniffer mode.
  • DThe vulnerability scanner is performing banner grabbing.

How the community answered

(41 responses)
  • A
    12% (5)
  • B
    2% (1)
  • C
    78% (32)
  • D
    7% (3)

Why each option

To remain covert during network enumeration and vulnerability scanning, a black hat hacker should employ methods that minimize active interaction with target systems.

AThe vulnerability scanner is performing an authenticated scan.

An authenticated scan requires logging into target systems with credentials, which is an active and highly detectable process that leaves logs and is not covert.

BThe vulnerability scanner is performing local file integrity checks.

Performing local file integrity checks involves direct access and interaction with a target system's file system, which is an active and easily detectable operation.

CThe vulnerability scanner is performing in network sniffer mode.Correct

Performing a vulnerability scan in network sniffer mode, also known as passive scanning, allows the hacker to listen to existing network traffic without actively sending probes or packets to target systems. This method gathers information by observing network communications, which is highly covert as it leaves no detectable footprint or logs on the scanned hosts.

DThe vulnerability scanner is performing banner grabbing.

Banner grabbing is an active technique where the scanner sends requests to services to elicit banner information, which generates network traffic and can be logged by the target system, compromising covertness.

Concept tested: Covert network reconnaissance and passive scanning techniques

Source: https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/Legacy/SP/nistspecialpublication800-115.pdf

Topics

#vulnerability scanning#passive scanning#covert reconnaissance#network sniffer

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