A government worker secretly copies classified files that co - CompTIA Security+ SY0-701
Question
A government worker secretly copies classified files that contain defense tactics information to an external drive. The government worker then gives the external drive to a corrupt organization. Which of the following best describes the motivation of the worker?
Answers
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correct
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Explanation
The Correct Answer is: A. Espionage
Espionage is the act of spying or using confidential, classified, or sensitive information for the benefit of another entity, such as a foreign power or corrupt organization. In this case, the government worker is motivated by a desire to provide defense tactics to an unauthorized organization. This behavior is aligned with espionage, as it involves betrayal of national interests and intentional transfer of classified data to another party for malicious purposes.
Why the other options are incorrect:
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B. Data exfiltration
Data exfiltration refers to the act of unauthorized copying, transferring, or moving of data from a system, often to an external drive or network. While this activity took place, it describes the method rather than the motivation. The worker’s intent was not just to steal data but to aid a corrupt organization, making espionage the correct classification. -
C. Financial gain
Financial gain involves an individual stealing or misusing information primarily for monetary benefits. While it is possible the worker received payment, the core motivation described is not about personal profit. Instead, it centers on the deliberate sharing of defense tactics with an external group, which is espionage-driven rather than financially motivated. -
D. Blackmail
Blackmail occurs when someone threatens to reveal damaging or embarrassing information unless demands are met, usually involving money or favors. In this case, the government worker did not attempt to leverage information against anyone for coercion. Instead, they willingly transferred classified defense tactics to a corrupt group, which is espionage, not blackmail.
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