GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies Practice Test

What could potentially happen if known vulnerabilities are not patched?

1. Enhanced system performance

2. Increased risk of exploitation by malicious actors

3. Improved user experience

4. Delayed software execution

The correct answer is: Increased risk of exploitation by malicious actors

When known vulnerabilities are not patched, the increased risk of exploitation by malicious actors is a significant consequence. Attackers actively search for unpatched systems to exploit vulnerabilities. This exploitation can lead to many detrimental outcomes, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, installation of malware, system disruptions, or even complete system takeovers. Vulnerabilities are often well-documented, and attackers can leverage this information to develop tailored attacks that could compromise the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of systems and data. Patching vulnerabilities is a critical aspect of maintaining cybersecurity hygiene. It helps organizations close security gaps before they can be exploited. As software developers release patches, they mitigate the risks associated with known vulnerabilities, making systems more secure against potential breaches. In contrast, the other outcomes mentioned—enhanced system performance, improved user experience, and delayed software execution—are not valid consequences of failing to patch vulnerabilities. In fact, neglecting patches may lead to degraded performance and increased complexity in system management, which can negatively impact user experience and potentially lead to delayed execution of software due to security checks or protective measures applied by security programs reacting to threats.