Palo Alto Networks (PANW) Certified Cybersecurity Entry-level Technician (PCCET) Practice Exam

Which malware type can change code and signature patterns with each iteration?

1. Polymorphic

2. Metamorphic

3. Ransomware

4. Rooting

The correct answer is: Metamorphic

The type of malware that can change code and signature patterns with each iteration is metamorphic malware. This form of malware is designed to rewrite its own code each time it executes, which allows it to avoid detection by traditional signature-based antivirus solutions. Unlike polymorphic malware, which changes only its appearance while keeping the underlying code structure relatively the same, metamorphic malware makes more extensive modifications, effectively creating a new variant each time it runs. This ability to create unique code structures helps it evade detection by security solutions that rely on identifying known patterns or signatures of malware. As a result, metamorphic malware can be particularly challenging for cybersecurity defenses, as it constantly evolves to maintain its effectiveness. In contrast, while polymorphic malware also changes its code to evade detection, it does so by encrypting and altering its appearance, rather than fully rewriting its code base. Ransomware is a distinct type of malware primarily focused on encrypting data to extort a ransom from the victim, without the self-altering characteristics. Rooting typically refers to gaining administrative access to a device and is not a type of malware, thus lacking the self-modifying nature described in the question.