GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies Practice Test

What is a word macro?

1. A word doc that can host malware

2. A feature that helps create complex documents easily

3. A formatting tool in word processing

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: A word doc that can host malware

A word macro refers to a feature within applications like Microsoft Word that allows users to automate repetitive tasks by recording a series of commands and keystrokes. When discussing the potential for macros to host malware, it highlights that macros can be programmed to perform harmful actions, such as executing malware if a document containing the macro is opened by an unsuspecting user. This capability to include potentially harmful code makes macros a vector for malware distribution. While it is true that macros can help create complex documents more easily by automating repetitive actions, this is not their primary definition. The use of macros goes beyond just formatting tools; rather, they represent a way to execute commands and automate procedures, which could either enhance productivity or pose security risks depending on how they are used. The perspective of macros hosting malware focuses on the security implications that come with the use of automated scripts within documents.