Which term defines the category of responses to unknown files including Audit, Hardening, and Lock?

• A. Audit Mode
• B. Operating Modes
• C. Exclusions
• D. Anti-Exploit Protection

Answer: (B)

The concept here is how a security system groups the ways it responds when it encounters unknown files. These responses are organized as Operating Modes, which describe the different ways the system can behave rather than a single action. Within this category you’ll see examples like Audit, Hardening, and Lock. Audit mode logs what would happen without blocking the file, providing visibility; Hardening tightens protections to reduce risk even if the file is unknown; Lock blocks or restricts the file, preventing execution.

Exclusions aren’t a response mode—they’re about skipping protection for certain items. Anti-Exploit Protection is a specific protection feature rather than the broad category for how unknown files are handled. Therefore, Operating Modes best fits as the umbrella term for these response options.