Which of the following is the MOST likely cause of the issue?

A technician downloads a validated security tool and notes the vendor hash of a58e87a2. When the download is complete, the technician again validates the hash, but the value returns as 2a876a7d3.

Which of the following is the MOST likely cause of the issue?
A . Private-browsing mode
B. Invalid certificate
C. Modified file
D. Browser cache

View Answer

Answer: C

Explanation:

The most likely cause of the issue of having different hash values for a downloaded security tool is a modified file. A hash value is a unique and fixed-length string that is generated from an algorithm that processes data or files. A hash value can be used to verify the integrity and authenticity of data or files by comparing it with a known or expected value. If the hash values do not match, it means that the data or file has been altered or corrupted in some way. A modified file may result from intentional or unintentional changes, such as editing, encryption, compression or malware infection. Private-browsing mode is a feature that allows users to browse the web without storing any browsing history, cookies or cache on their browser. Private-browsing mode does not affect the hash value of a downloaded file but only how the browser handles user data. Invalid certificate is an error that occurs when a website or a server does not have a valid or trusted digital certificate that proves its identity and secures its communication. Invalid certificate does not affect the hash value of a downloaded file but only how the browser verifies the website or server’s credibility. Browser cache is a temporary storage that stores copies of web pages, images and other content that users have visited on their browser.