EC-Council 312-50v13 Exam Actual Questions
Certified Ethical Hacker v13 (Page 9 )

Updated On: 31-Jul-2026

This form of encryption algorithm is a symmetric key block cipher that is characterized by a 128-bit block size, and its key size can be up to 256 bits.
Which among the following is this encryption algorithm?

  1. HMAC encryption algorithm
  2. Twofish encryption algorithm
  3. IDEA
  4. Blowfish encryption algorithm

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

B is correct because the Twofish encryption algorithm is a symmetric key block cipher with a 128-bit block size and supports key sizes up to 256 bits.
Twofish is widely recognized for its security and efficiency; it was a finalist in the AES competition and is known for utilizing a Feistel network with a complex key schedule, providing robust resistance against various cryptographic attacks. Its design enables it to maintain a balance between high performance and security, making it suitable for both hardware and software implementations.
Evaluation of Other Options:

A: HMAC encryption algorithm: HMAC (Hash-based Message Authentication Code) is not an encryption algorithm but rather a mechanism for providing integrity and authenticity using hash functions combined with a secret key. It does not involve block size or key size specifications as seen in symmetric encryption.
C: IDEA: The International Data Encryption Algorithm (IDEA) uses a block size of 64 bits and supports key sizes of 128 bits. Although it is a symmetric key cipher, it does not meet the specified block size of 128 bits, making it an incorrect choice.
D: Blowfish encryption algorithm: Blowfish is another symmetric key algorithm, but it operates on a block size of 64 bits with key sizes ranging from 32 to 448 bits. This does not align with the specified 128-bit block size, disqualifying it as the correct answer.
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twofish https://csrc.nist.gov/publications/detail/sp/800-38a/archive/2001-12-01 https://www.crypto-textbook.com/


Reference:

References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twofish https://csrc.nist.gov/publications/detail/sp/800-38a/archive/2001-12-01 https://www.crypto-textbook.com/



Jude, a pen tester working in Keiltech Ltd., performs sophisticated security testing on his company's network infrastructure to identify security loopholes. In this process, he started to circumvent the network protection tools and firewalls used in the company. He employed a technique that can create forged TCP sessions by carrying out multiple SYN, ACK, and RST or FIN packets. Further, this process allowed Jude to execute DDoS attacks that can exhaust the network resources.
What is the attack technique used by Jude for finding loopholes in the above scenario?

  1. Spoofed session flood attack
  2. UDP flood attack
  3. Peer-to-peer attack
  4. Ping-of-death attack

Answer(s): A

Explanation:

A: Spoofed session flood attack is correct because Jude employs a technique that uses forged TCP packets to manipulate network traffic and create resource exhaustion, characteristic of this attack.
The spoofed session flood attack involves generating deceptive packets to trick the targeted system, leading to the establishment of fake TCP sessions. By sending multiple SYN requests while altering the source IP address, Jude can create sessions that consume network resources without legitimate communication. This technique is particularly effective against stateful firewalls, which track active connection states, enabling operational disruption and potential DDoS conditions.
Evaluation of Incorrect Options:
B: UDP flood attack - This option involves overwhelming a target with UDP packets to saturate bandwidth. Unlike TCP-based methods, it does not focus on session establishment, making it irrelevant for exploiting TCP connection states as described in the scenario.
C: Peer-to-peer attack - This refers to malicious actions within decentralized networks facilitating data manipulation or unauthorized access between peers. It does not correlate with the techniques for establishing forged TCP sessions spanning network resources.
D: Ping-of-death attack - This is an older method that involves sending malformed or oversized packets to crash targeted systems.
While damaging, it is not directly associated with the manipulation of TCP session management, which is essential in Jude's approach.
References:
https://www.csoonline.com/article/2697815/what-is-a-flood-attack.html https://www.imperva.com/learn/application-security/ddos-attack/ https://www.acunetix.com/websitesecurity/spoofed-session-attacks/


Reference:

References:
https://www.csoonline.com/article/2697815/what-is-a-flood-attack.html https://www.imperva.com/learn/application-security/ddos-attack/ https://www.acunetix.com/websitesecurity/spoofed-session-attacks/



Jim, a professional hacker, targeted an organization that is operating critical industrial infrastructure. Jim used Nmap to scan open ports and running services on systems connected to the organization’s OT network. He used an Nmap command to identify Ethernet/IP devices connected to the Internet and further gathered information such as the vendor name, product code and name, device name, and IP address.
Which of the following Nmap commands helped Jim retrieve the required information?

  1. nmap -Pn -sT --scan-delay 1s --max-parallelism 1 -p < Port List > < Target IP >
  2. nmap -Pn -sU -p 44818 --script enip-info < Target IP >
  3. nmap -Pn -sT -p 46824 < Target IP >
  4. nmap -Pn -sT -p 102 --script s7-info < Target IP >

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

B is correct because it specifically utilizes the Ethernet/IP (ENIP) protocol port 44818, leveraging the Nmap scripting engine to extract in-depth information about connected devices.
Nmap offers various scanning techniques, but the command in option B is tailored for identifying devices complying with the Ethernet/IP protocol, which is prevalent in industrial control systems (ICS) and operational technology (OT) networks. The -Pn flag disables host discovery, allowing scanning on hosts that do not respond to pings, while the -sU option enables UDP scanning, which is essential for protocols like Ethernet/IP
that operate over UDP.
Evaluation of Other Options:
A : This command performs a TCP connect scan with -sT , and while it can identify open ports ( -p <Port List> ), it does not utilize any specialized scripting features to retrieve Ethernet/IP device information, rendering it insufficient for the specific information Jim sought.
C : The command also utilizes TCP ( -sT ) for scanning a specific port (46824) without any script invocation.
Without script support, it lacks the capability to uncover detailed attributes of specific Ethernet/IP devices, limiting its effectiveness.
D : This command targets port 102, intending to use the s7-info script, which is specific to Siemens S7 protocol devices. Even if successful, it does not relate to Ethernet/IP devices, making it irrelevant to Jim's objective of gathering Ethernet/IP-specific information.
For these reasons, option B stands out as the only choice aligning with the requirements to ascertain comprehensive details about Ethernet/IP devices.
References:
https://nmap.org/book/nse.html https://nmap.org/nsedoc/scripts/enip-info.html https://nmap.org/book/man.html


Reference:

References:
https://nmap.org/book/nse.html https://nmap.org/nsedoc/scripts/enip-info.html https://nmap.org/book/man.html



While testing a web application in development, you notice that the web server does not properly ignore the “dot dot slash” (../) character string and instead returns the file listing of a folder higher up in the folder structure of the server.
What kind of attack is possible in this scenario?

  1. Cross-site scripting
  2. SQL injection
  3. Denial of service
  4. Directory traversal

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

D is correct because it directly indicates the exploitation of a vulnerability in the path traversal mechanism of the web server.
Directory traversal attacks occur when user input is improperly sanitized, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths and access files outside the intended directory structure. In this scenario, the presence of dot dot slash (../) sequences indicates that the web application is vulnerable, permitting access to restricted directories and potentially sensitive files that should not be publicly accessible. This exploitation can lead to unauthorized data exposure, modification, or even system compromise.
Evaluation of Incorrect Options:

A: Cross-site scripting (XSS) : XSS involves injecting malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. This attack type targets client-side execution rather than the server file structure, making it irrelevant in the context of directory traversal.
B: SQL injection (SQLi) : SQLi involves manipulating database queries through unsanitized input, primarily targeting backend databases.
While also a serious risk, it does not involve filesystem access or directory structure manipulation, thus making it unrelated to the scenario presented.
C: Denial of service (DoS) : A DoS attack aims to make a service unavailable to users, often through overwhelming traffic or resource consumption. The ability to traverse directories doesn't inherently lead to service disruption but rather to unauthorized file access, making this option inappropriate.
In summary, the described vulnerability aligns specifically with directory traversal due to improper input handling related to file paths, while the other listed attack vectors target different application layers and mechanisms.


Reference:

https://owasp.org/www-community/attacks/Path_Traversal " target="_blank"> https://owasp.org/www-community/attacks/Path_Traversal https://www.acunetix.com/blog/articles/what-is-directory-traversal/ " target="_blank"> https://www.acunetix.com/blog/articles/what-is-directory-traversal/ https://sectigostore.com/blog/understanding-directory-traversal-vulnerability/
" target="_blank"> https://sectigostore.com/blog/understanding-directory-traversal-vulnerability/



Richard, an attacker, aimed to hack IoT devices connected to a target network. In this process, Richard recorded the frequency required to share information between connected devices. After obtaining the frequency, he captured the original data when commands were initiated by the connected devices. Once the original data were collected, he used free tools such as URH to segregate the command sequence. Subsequently, he started injecting the segregated command sequence on the same frequency into the IoT network, which repeats the captured signals of the devices.
What is the type of attack performed by Richard in the above scenario?

  1. Cryptanalysis attack
  2. Reconnaissance attack
  3. Side-channel attack
  4. Replay attack

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

The correct answer is D: Replay attack.
In the scenario described, Richard's actions exemplify a replay attack. This form of attack occurs when an adversary captures and reuses valid data transmission to unauthorizedly execute commands. In this case, Richard intercepted the frequency and original data from IoT devices and subsequently injected that data back into the network. The essence of a replay attack lies in the unauthorized duplication of legitimate communications, often for the purpose of manipulating devices or gaining unauthorized access.
Evaluation of Other Options:

A: Cryptanalysis attack : This type of attack focuses on analyzing and breaking cryptographic algorithms and protocols. Richard's actions don't primarily involve any cryptographic analysis or decryption of secure communications; instead, he merely captured and reused existing data, making this option inappropriate.
B: Reconnaissance attack : This refers to the initial phase of gathering information about a target system or network.
While Richard did gather some information (the frequency for communication), the core action of capturing and reusing data is beyond this preparatory phase, as it directly affects the functionality of the devices.
C: Side-channel attack : These attacks exploit indirect information (such as timing, power consumption, electromagnetic leaks) to gain insights into computational processes or cryptographic keys. Richard's method focused on capturing and replaying legitimate communications without analyzing any side-channel information, making this category unsuitable.
In summary, Richard’s actions align specifically with a replay attack due to the methodical capture and retransmission of valid data without altering its content or seeking cryptographic vulnerabilities.
References:
https://www.owasp.org/index.php/Replaying_Authentication_Credentials https://www.cyber.gov.au/acsc/view-all-content/publications/replay-attacks https://www.whatismybrowser.com/guides/how-to-prevent-replay-attacks


Reference:

References:
https://www.owasp.org/index.php/Replaying_Authentication_Credentials https://www.cyber.gov.au/acsc/view-all-content/publications/replay-attacks https://www.whatismybrowser.com/guides/how-to-prevent-replay-attacks



Which of the following allows attackers to draw a map or outline the target organization's network infrastructure to know about the actual environment that they are going to hack?

  1. Vulnerability analysis
  2. Malware analysis
  3. Scanning networks
  4. Enumeration

Answer(s): C

Explanation:

C is correct because scanning networks enables attackers to map out a target organization's network infrastructure, identifying active devices, open ports, and potential vulnerabilities.
Network scanning is an essential phase in the reconnaissance process of ethical hacking. It allows testers to gather critical information about the organization’s topology, including subnets, host configurations, and service versions. This preliminary data is invaluable in assessing security postures and potential attack vectors, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the environment an attacker is about to engage.
Structured Evaluation of Other Options:

A: Vulnerability Analysis While vulnerability analysis identifies weaknesses in specific systems or applications, it does not provide the broader contextual mapping of the entire network infrastructure. This step assumes prior knowledge of the network layout, thereby limiting its effectiveness in preliminary reconnaissance.
B: Malware Analysis Malware analysis focuses on evaluating malicious software to understand its characteristics, behaviors, and impacts. This process is inherently reactive and does not offer insights into the network's infrastructure, rendering it irrelevant in the context of mapping organizational networks.
D: Enumeration Enumeration involves obtaining detailed information about network resources (like user accounts and services).
While it provides insights into the operational environment, it occurs after scanning and depends on the information gathered during that initial phase. Thus, it cannot serve as a standalone method for outlining network architecture.
In summary, network scanning is fundamental for creating a comprehensive map of an organization’s network, delineating paths an attacker might exploit.


Reference:

https://www.eccouncil.org/certified-ethical-hacker-ceh/ " target="_blank"> https://www.eccouncil.org/certified-ethical-hacker-ceh/ https://www.csoonline.com/article/3330341/what-is-network-scanning-benefits-and-tools.html " target="_blank"> https://www.csoonline.com/article/3330341/what-is-network-scanning-benefits-and-tools.html https://www.blackhat.com/docs/us-19/briefings/scheduled/BlackHat-USA-2019-Scada-network-analysis-using-scanning-and-enumeration-wp.pdf
" target="_blank"> https://www.blackhat.com/docs/us-19/briefings/scheduled/BlackHat-USA-2019-Scada-network-analysis-using-scanning-and-enumeration-wp.pdf



Your company was hired by a small healthcare provider to perform a technical assessment on the network.
What is the best approach for discovering vulnerabilities on a Windows-based computer?

  1. Use the built-in Windows Update tool
  2. Use a scan tool like Nessus
  3. Check MITRE.org for the latest list of CVE findings
  4. Create a disk image of a clean Windows installation

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

B is correct because using a scan tool like Nessus provides a comprehensive analysis of vulnerabilities, leveraging extensive databases and known exploits to assess the security posture of the system.

A: Use the built-in Windows Update tool While the Windows Update tool is crucial for applying patches and updates, it does not actively scan for vulnerabilities. It primarily focuses on ensuring current software versions are installed, rather than identifying security gaps that exist within the network or system.
C: Check MITRE.org for the latest list of CVE findings Although MITRE.org provides valuable resources, including common vulnerability and exposures (CVE) listings, it serves more as a reference than a direct scanning solution. Simply accessing CVE information without utilizing it in a practical assessment context does not lead to effective vulnerability discovery.
D: Create a disk image of a clean Windows installation Creating a disk image is a defensive measure and optimizes recovery protocols but does not contribute to vulnerability discovery. It only provides a fallback stage, without proactive identification of security risks in the current environment, thus failing to address existing vulnerabilities.


Reference:

https://www.tenable.com/products/nessus " target="_blank"> https://www.tenable.com/products/nessus https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/ " target="_blank"> https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/ https://cve.mitre.org/
" target="_blank"> https://cve.mitre.org/



Susan, a software developer, wants her web API to update other applications with the latest information. For this purpose, she uses a user-defined HTTP callback or push APIs that are raised based on trigger events; when invoked, this feature supplies data to other applications so that users can instantly receive real-time information.
Which of the following techniques is employed by Susan?

  1. Web shells
  2. Webhooks
  3. REST API
  4. SOAP API

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

B is correct because webhooks facilitate real-time data transmission between applications based on specific events.
Webhooks are user-defined HTTP callbacks that are invoked by particular events within a web application, allowing one application to send real-time data to another. In Susan’s scenario, her application uses webhooks to ensure that other applications receive updates immediately when relevant triggers occur, which aligns with the need for real-time information dissemination.
Critical Evaluation of Incorrect Options:

A: Web shells: Web shells represent a method for executing commands on a web server, often utilized in malicious contexts for remote administration. They do not provide mechanisms for real-time updates between applications, rendering them unsuitable for the context of APIs updating other applications.
C: REST API: While REST APIs are widely used for building web services and allow for communication between client and server, they primarily operate through request-response interactions rather than initiating data transmission based on events. Thus, they do not embody the "push" nature that webhooks do.
D: SOAP API: SOAP APIs employ a protocol based on XML for communication and are typically used in a request-response model similar to REST. They are not event-driven like webhooks and thus do not support the real-time push functionality illustrated in Susan's requirements.
References:
https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2021/06/webhooks-101/ https://blog.nerdpenguin.com/webhooks-what-are-they-why-to-use-them https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Learn/JavaScript/Asynchronous/Promises


Reference:

References:
https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2021/06/webhooks-101/ https://blog.nerdpenguin.com/webhooks-what-are-they-why-to-use-them https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Learn/JavaScript/Asynchronous/Promises



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