An attacker gains access to a restaurant's router by reviewing device documentation online. Which attack is most likely occurring?

The correct answer revolves around the concept of default credentials, which refers to the common security issue where networking and other devices are left configured with manufacturer-set usernames and passwords. In the scenario presented, the attacker accessed the restaurant's router by reviewing online device documentation. Many routers and networking devices have a set of default credentials that are published in their documentation, which is widely accessible, making it easy for an attacker to exploit this vulnerability.

When users do not change these default credentials after installation, it creates an opportunity for attackers. By obtaining this information from publicly available documentation, the attacker can log in to the router and potentially gain control over the network, leading to various forms of compromise.

While the other options describe different types of attacks, they do not specifically align with the situation described. For instance, a man-in-the-middle attack involves intercepting communication between two parties, which does not relate to gaining unauthorized access via credentials. A brute force attack entails systematically guessing passwords until the correct one is found, which requires knowledge of the username but not specific documentation. Social engineering involves manipulating individuals to divulge confidential information, rather than simply using technical or publicly available information to gain access. Therefore, the scenario highlights a clear case of an attacker using default credentials, making that