Which of the following is a method by which a passive attack operates?

A passive attack typically involves the monitoring of data transmissions without making any alterations to the data being sent. The primary goal of such attacks is to gather information without being detected. This contrasts with active attacks, where an attacker tries to manipulate or alter the data.

In passive attacks, the attacker may intercept communications, eavesdrop on network traffic, or capture data packets. Since there’s no interaction with the target system or alteration of the data, the attack remains undetected, allowing the attacker to collect valuable information, such as credentials or sensitive data.

The other methods listed — interacting with the target system, exploiting vulnerabilities through user interaction, and gaining physical access to the system — all imply some level of active engagement or influence over the target, distinguishing them from the largely non-invasive nature of passive attacks. In active engagements, the attacker modifies the state or behaviour of the target, which is not characteristic of passive strategies.