Digital Forensic Certification Practice Exam

What is a 'Crypter' used for regarding malware?

1. To compress files for transfer.

2. To conceal the existence of malware.

3. To encrypt emails for privacy.

4. To remove malware from infected systems.

The correct answer is: To conceal the existence of malware.

A 'Crypter' is a tool specifically designed to conceal the existence of malware by obfuscating its code. This process makes it harder for traditional antivirus solutions to detect the malware, as the original code is modified, and only the encrypted form is visible. By using a Crypter, malicious actors can increase the longevity and effectiveness of their malware, as it blends in with legitimate processes and remains hidden from security systems. The primary purpose of employing a Crypter is to ensure that the malware can evade detection not just at the moment of deployment but also during ongoing surveillance by security software. This concealment is crucial for enabling further malicious activities, such as data exfiltration or establishing control over compromised systems, often without the user's knowledge. In contrast, suitable alternatives in the context of crpyters, such as compressing files or encrypting communication for privacy, do not serve the same malicious intent as they are generally employed for legitimate purposes. Similarly, removing malware is the opposite of what a Crypter aims to accomplish, as its function is designed to protect the malware from being detected rather than eliminating it.