CompTIA Security+ (SY0-501) — Question 812

An organization just experienced a major cyberattack incident. The attack was well coordinated, sophisticated, and highly skilled. Which of the following targeted the organization?

Answer options

• A. Shadow IT
• B. An insider threat
• C. A hacktivist
• D. An advanced persistent threat

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is D, as an advanced persistent threat (APT) involves prolonged and targeted cyberattacks, typically carried out by skilled adversaries. Options A, B, and C do not accurately describe the nature of a coordinated and sophisticated attack; Shadow IT refers to unauthorized applications, insider threats involve current employees, and hacktivists are usually driven by political motives rather than a structured attack approach.