2018 GS Paper I, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2018 · GS Paper I
Question 58: Science and Technology
The terms ‘WannaCry, Petya and EternalBlue’ sometimes mentioned in the news recently are related to
aExoplanets
bCryptocurrency
cCyber attacks
dMini satellites
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (c).
WannaCry and Petya were ransomware attacks in 2017 that locked computer files and demanded payment, spreading across many countries. EternalBlue is an exploit of a Windows vulnerability, reportedly developed by the US National Security Agency and leaked, which these attacks used to spread. All three terms therefore relate to cyber attacks.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Exoplanets are named by catalogue designations, not by such terms.
- (b) Ransomware demands cryptocurrency, but these terms are not cryptocurrencies.
- (c) Right: ransomware and an exploit used in the 2017 cyber attacks.
- (d) They are not mini satellites.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2018, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.