Which of the following is NOT an indicator that a computer or network might have been accessed or compromised by an unauthorized user or entity?

The reason that the first choice is not an indicator of unauthorized access or compromise is that receiving a notification to update system passwords before they expire is typically a standard security protocol. Organizations routinely prompt users to change their passwords at regular intervals to enhance security and reduce the risk of unauthorized access. This practice is part of good cybersecurity hygiene and does not inherently suggest that a computer or network has been accessed without authorization.

In contrast, the other options describe scenarios that raise red flags regarding potential unauthorized access. For instance, irregularities in network traffic detected by a user in the IT department can indicate that an unauthorized entity may be trying to infiltrate the network or exfiltrate data. Similarly, if an authorized user is denied access to a part of the network relevant to their role, it could suggest that their account has been compromised or that access controls have been manipulated by someone unauthorized. Finally, unusual prompts for software installations or patches could be indicative of malware or rogue software demanding to be installed on systems, a common tactic used by attackers to gain control over devices or networks. Each of these scenarios suggests suspicious activities not typical of standard operations, highlighting potential security breaches.