CompTIA Security+ (SY0-501) — Question 995

After successfully breaking into several networks and infecting multiple machines with malware, hackers contact the network owners, demanding payment to remove the infection and decrypt files. The hackers threaten to publicly release information about the breach if they are not paid. Which of the following BEST describes these attackers?

Answer options

• A. Gray hat hackers
• B. Organized crime
• C. Insiders
• D. Hacktivists

Correct answer: B

Explanation

The correct answer is B, as organized crime refers to structured groups that engage in illegal activities for profit, including extortion through ransomware. The other options do not accurately describe the attackers; gray hat hackers typically do not demand payment, insiders are individuals within the organization, and hacktivists usually have political motives rather than financial ones.