Question 41 from UPSC CSE 2018 - Current Affairs

Question

The terms 'WannaCry, Petya, and EternalBlue' sometimes mentioned in the discourses recently are related to

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. Cyber attacks

Strategy: The strategy involved connecting the terms 'WannaCry', 'Petya', and 'EternalBlue' to major computer security breaches and ransomware attacks, which aligns them with cyber threats. Other given options (exoplanets, cryptocurrency, mini satellites) were quickly eliminated as they do not fit the context of these specific terms.

Key Info: ## WannaCry
WannaCry was a widespread ransomware attack that occurred in May 2017. It exploited a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows (SMB protocol), leveraging an exploit tool known as EternalBlue. Upon infection, computers had their files encrypted, and a ransom was demanded in Bitcoin.

## Petya
Petya is a distinct family of encrypting ransomware, notable for major outbreaks in 2016 and 2017. It also utilized the EternalBlue exploit for rapid propagation. Unlike WannaCry, Petya targets the Master Boot Record of Windows-based systems, leading to a system lockout until the ransom is paid.

## EternalBlue
EternalBlue is a cyberattack exploit developed by the US National Security Agency (NSA) and publicly leaked in 2017. It specifically exploits vulnerabilities within Microsoft Windows' SMB v1 protocol.

## Impact
Both WannaCry and Petya leveraged EternalBlue to spread rapidly across global systems. These incidents serve as significant examples of large-scale cyber attacks capable of affecting critical infrastructure, enterprises, and individual users worldwide, emphasizing the critical importance of cybersecurity and international cooperation in mitigating digital risks.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Exoplanets

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Cryptocurrency

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: Mini satellites