Which of the following represents an activity conducted during scanning in pentesting?

Performing a TCP connect scan is an essential activity conducted during the scanning phase of penetration testing, which involves gathering information about the target system. This process helps a pentester identify open ports on the target machine by establishing a connection to them. Each open port can indicate which services are running and can provide insights into potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited.

The scanning phase is critical because it allows for the mapping of the network and services, which informs the subsequent phases of the pentest. By using techniques like a TCP connect scan, testers can actively engage with a target, revealing the system's structure and security posture, which are necessary for effective vulnerability assessment and exploit development.

Other activities listed, such as creating storyboards, generating an Attack Path Map, or auditing company policies, do not fall under the scanning phase. These are more related to planning, documenting the pentest process, or assessing internal controls rather than the active scanning for vulnerabilities on a system.