CompTIA CAS-005 SecurityX  Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set5 Q81-100

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Question 81:

Which type of attack attempts to guess user credentials by systematically trying all possible combinations until successful?

A. Brute-force attack
B. Dictionary attack
C. Rainbow table attack
D. Phishing

Answer: A. Brute-force attack

 Explanation:

A brute-force attack involves systematically attempting every possible combination of characters in order to guess a password or encryption key. This attack relies on the computing power of modern systems, often leveraging automated tools to quickly iterate through combinations. Brute-force attacks differ from dictionary attacks, which use precompiled lists of commonly used passwords or words, and rainbow table attacks, which use precomputed hashes to reverse hashed passwords. Phishing, by contrast, targets human behavior to obtain credentials rather than computationally guessing them. Brute-force attacks are a significant threat because weak passwords, insufficient account lockout policies, and lack of multi-factor authentication can make systems vulnerable. CAS-005 candidates must understand brute-force attacks in the context of authentication security, password policies, and defense mechanisms. Mitigation strategies include enforcing strong, complex passwords, using account lockout and delay mechanisms, implementing multi-factor authentication, and monitoring authentication logs for suspicious activity. Understanding brute-force attacks emphasizes the importance of layered security and secure credential management to protect confidentiality and integrity in enterprise systems.

Question 82:

 Which protocol is used to secure remote administrative access to network devices by encrypting both credentials and session data?

A. Telnet
B. SSH
C. FTP
D. HTTP

Answer: B. SSH

 Explanation:

Secure Shell (SSH) is a protocol used for secure remote access to network devices, servers, and other systems. SSH encrypts both authentication credentials and session data, preventing eavesdropping, credential theft, and session hijacking. Telnet, by contrast, sends data in plaintext and is considered insecure. FTP transmits files without encryption unless using FTPS or SFTP, and HTTP is used for unencrypted web traffic. In CAS-005, understanding SSH is critical for managing secure administrative access, configuring devices, and preventing unauthorized access. SSH provides strong cryptographic protection, including symmetric encryption for session data, asymmetric encryption for key exchange, and hashing for data integrity. Organizations should enforce SSH for all remote administration, disable legacy protocols like Telnet, implement strong authentication, use key-based authentication instead of passwords, and monitor access logs. SSH supports confidentiality, integrity, and authentication, making it a cornerstone of secure system management in enterprise environments.

Question 83:

Which type of malware self-replicates across networks without user interaction?

A. Trojan
B. Worm
C. Keylogger
D. Rootkit

Answer: B. Worm

Explanation:

A worm is a type of malware that can self-replicate and propagate across networks without requiring user interaction. Worms exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems, applications, or network services to spread automatically. Trojans, by contrast, require the user to execute a malicious program, keyloggers secretly capture keystrokes, and rootkits hide the presence of malware to maintain persistent access. Worms are particularly dangerous because they can cause rapid system compromise, network congestion, and wide-scale disruptions. CAS-005 candidates must understand worms in the context of malware behavior, network security, and incident response. Detection and mitigation strategies include applying timely software patches, deploying intrusion detection and prevention systems, segmenting networks, monitoring traffic for anomalies, and educating users about malware vectors. Worms impact confidentiality, integrity, and availability by spreading malicious code, stealing data, or degrading system performance. Understanding worm propagation and defenses reinforces the importance of layered security controls, including technical, administrative, and procedural measures, to maintain enterprise system security.

Question 84:

Which term describes a set of security measures designed to prevent unauthorized access to physical facilities?

A. Administrative control
B. Technical control
C. Physical control
D. Detective control

 Answer: C. Physical control

 Explanation:

Physical controls are security measures that protect facilities, equipment, and personnel from unauthorized physical access or environmental hazards. Examples include locks, security guards, fences, surveillance cameras, access badges, and environmental controls like fire suppression systems. Physical controls differ from administrative controls, which involve policies, procedures, and training, and technical controls, which include hardware or software measures like firewalls and encryption. Detective controls, by contrast, monitor and alert on unauthorized access or unusual activity. In CAS-005, understanding physical controls is critical for securing data centers, server rooms, and sensitive areas. Effective physical security involves layered measures, including perimeter security, controlled access points, monitoring systems, and emergency response procedures. Physical controls support the CIA triad by preventing unauthorized access that could compromise confidentiality, integrity, or availability. Organizations must regularly assess physical security, conduct risk analysis, implement access logging, and integrate controls with broader security policies to maintain a secure operational environment.

Question 85:

Which type of attack targets vulnerabilities in a web application’s input fields to manipulate backend databases?

A. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
B. SQL Injection
C. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
D. Session Hijacking

Answer: B. SQL Injection

Explanation:

SQL injection is a web application attack that exploits vulnerabilities in input fields or application code to manipulate backend databases. Attackers can execute unauthorized SQL commands, retrieve sensitive data, modify records, or even gain administrative access to the database server. XSS attacks, by contrast, inject malicious scripts into web pages to execute in a user’s browser, CSRF manipulates authenticated users to perform unintended actions, and session hijacking involves stealing session tokens to impersonate users. CAS-005 candidates must understand SQL injection because it directly threatens the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of enterprise data. Preventing SQL injection requires secure coding practices, input validation, parameterized queries, stored procedures, and least-privilege database accounts. Web application firewalls, security testing, and code reviews are also effective mitigation strategies. SQL injection remains one of the most common web vulnerabilities, highlighting the importance of secure development lifecycles, proper configuration, and continuous monitoring. Understanding these attacks allows organizations to protect critical data and maintain operational integrity.

Question 86:

Which concept involves distributing multiple layers of security controls throughout an organization to protect resources?

A. Defense in depth
B. Principle of least privilege
C. Separation of duties
D. Single sign-on

 Answer: A. Defense in depth

Explanation:

Defense in depth is a security strategy that uses multiple layers of controls to protect information, systems, and infrastructure. The concept ensures that if one security measure fails, others continue to provide protection. Layers can include administrative policies, technical controls such as firewalls and intrusion prevention systems, physical security, encryption, endpoint protection, monitoring, and training. This layered approach reduces risk, increases resilience, and supports the CIA triad by protecting confidentiality, integrity, and availability across all organizational assets. The principle of least privilege limits access, separation of duties divides responsibilities, and single sign-on simplifies authentication, but defense in depth integrates all these measures into a cohesive security architecture. CAS-005 candidates must understand defense in depth as a foundational security principle that guides planning, design, and operational security. Implementing multiple layers requires risk assessment, policy enforcement, technology integration, and continuous evaluation to ensure the effectiveness of controls. Defense in depth emphasizes proactive, comprehensive security rather than reliance on a single control, enhancing the overall security posture.

Question 87:

Which type of network device is primarily responsible for segregating traffic between multiple networks and controlling access based on defined rules?

A. Switch
B. Router
C. Firewall
D. Hub

Answer: C. Firewall

Explanation:

A firewall is a network security device that controls incoming and outgoing traffic between networks based on predefined security rules. Firewalls can filter traffic by IP addresses, ports, protocols, or application-level content. They enforce access policies, prevent unauthorized access, and protect networks from attacks such as malware, DoS, and unauthorized intrusions. Switches operate at Layer 2 to forward traffic within a network, routers forward traffic between networks, and hubs simply broadcast traffic to all connected devices. In CAS-005, understanding firewalls is critical for network defense strategies, including perimeter protection, segmentation, and layered security. Firewalls may be stateful, packet-filtering, or application-layer to handle different types of traffic and threats. Effective firewall management requires defining clear policies, monitoring logs, updating rules, and integrating with intrusion detection and prevention systems. Firewalls contribute to confidentiality, integrity, and availability by controlling network traffic and blocking malicious activity while allowing legitimate communication.

Question 88:

Which type of cloud service model provides virtualized computing resources such as servers, storage, and networks to clients over the internet?

A. Software as a Service (SaaS)
B. Platform as a Service (PaaS)
C. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
D. Function as a Service (FaaS)

 Answer: C. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

 Explanation

 Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) delivers virtualized computing resources, including servers, storage, and networking, over the internet. Clients can deploy and manage operating systems, applications, and workloads without investing in physical hardware. IaaS offers flexibility, scalability, and cost efficiency, allowing organizations to provision resources on-demand. SaaS provides fully managed software applications, PaaS delivers a platform for application development, and FaaS enables serverless execution of code in response to events. In CAS-005, understanding IaaS is important for cloud security, shared responsibility, and resource management. Security considerations include virtual machine configuration, network segmentation, access control, monitoring, encryption, and compliance. Organizations must implement proper identity and access management, secure API access, and data protection strategies when using IaaS. Understanding IaaS helps candidates evaluate cloud deployment risks, security controls, and operational responsibilities in enterprise environments.

Question 89:

Which type of attack involves tricking users into revealing sensitive information by impersonating legitimate sources through email, phone calls, or messages?

A. Social engineering
B. Denial-of-service
C. Worm
D. Cross-site scripting

Answer: A. Social engineering

Explanation:

Social engineering is a technique that exploits human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities to obtain confidential information or induce specific behaviors. Attackers manipulate trust, fear, or curiosity to deceive users into revealing credentials, financial data, or access to systems. Common social engineering methods include phishing emails, vishing (voice phishing), smishing (SMS phishing), and in-person manipulation. Unlike DoS attacks, which target availability, worms that propagate malware, or XSS that injects scripts, social engineering specifically targets human factors. CAS-005 candidates must understand social engineering because human error remains one of the most significant security risks. Mitigation strategies include employee training, awareness programs, simulated phishing exercises, access control enforcement, multi-factor authentication, and monitoring suspicious activity. Organizations should implement policies to report incidents and reinforce a security culture. Social engineering attacks highlight the importance of combining administrative controls, technical defenses, and user education to protect confidentiality, integrity, and availability of enterprise systems.

Question 90:

Which type of attack redirects or spoofs DNS requests to malicious websites?

A. ARP poisoning
B. DNS poisoning
C. IP spoofing
D. Man-in-the-Middle

Answer: B. DNS poisoning

 Explanation:

DNS poisoning, also called DNS spoofing, is an attack where attackers corrupt the domain name system to redirect traffic intended for legitimate websites to malicious sites. Users may unknowingly enter sensitive information, download malware, or access phishing pages. ARP poisoning manipulates the ARP cache on a local network, IP spoofing fakes source IP addresses, and Man-in-the-Middle attacks intercept communications. CAS-005 candidates must understand DNS poisoning to recognize the importance of secure DNS practices, including DNSSEC, monitoring, filtering, and redundancy. Organizations must implement controls to validate DNS responses, detect tampering, and educate users to identify suspicious sites. DNS poisoning threatens confidentiality, integrity, and availability by redirecting traffic, facilitating data theft, and disrupting services. Mitigating such attacks is essential for maintaining secure network operations and protecting users from fraud and malware.

Question 91:

Which security principle ensures that data cannot be altered or tampered with during storage or transmission?

A. Confidentiality
B. Integrity
C. Availability
D. Non-repudiation

Answer: B. Integrity

Explanation:

Integrity ensures that data remains accurate, consistent, and unaltered from its source to its destination. Maintaining integrity prevents accidental or malicious modification of information and supports trust in the system. Methods to ensure integrity include hashing, digital signatures, checksums, and access controls. Confidentiality protects against unauthorized access, availability ensures resources are accessible, and non-repudiation prevents denial of actions. In CAS-005, understanding integrity is vital for secure communication, file storage, database management, and auditing. Organizations implement integrity controls to detect tampering, maintain accurate records, and enforce accountability. Combining technical, administrative, and procedural measures ensures data integrity across enterprise systems.

Question 92:

Which type of malware hides its presence on a system to maintain persistent access without detection?

A. Rootkit
B. Trojan
C. Worm
D. Adware

Answer: A. Rootkit

Explanation:

A rootkit is a type of malware designed to conceal its presence on a system, often by modifying operating system functions, drivers, or low-level utilities. Rootkits provide attackers with persistent access while evading detection by security software or users. Trojans require user execution to deploy, worms self-replicate, and adware displays unwanted advertisements. Rootkits pose a significant threat to confidentiality, integrity, and availability because they allow unauthorized access, manipulation, or data exfiltration. CAS-005 candidates must understand rootkits to implement prevention and detection strategies, such as integrity monitoring, behavior analysis, secure boot, and anti-rootkit tools. Rootkits highlight the importance of layered defenses, regular system auditing, and endpoint protection to maintain secure systems.

Question 93:

Which type of attack floods a target with a large volume of requests, often using multiple compromised devices to amplify the impact?

A. Phishing
B. Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS)
C. SQL Injection
D. Man-in-the-Middle

Answer: B. Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS)

 Explanation:

A Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack is a sophisticated form of cyberattack that targets the availability of systems, applications, or network infrastructure by overwhelming them with an extremely high volume of requests. Unlike a traditional Denial-of-Service (DoS) attack, which originates from a single source, a DDoS attack leverages multiple compromised devices—often part of a botnet—to generate traffic from numerous locations simultaneously. These devices may include infected computers, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, or servers under attacker control. The distributed nature of the attack makes it more challenging to mitigate, trace, and block, as traffic appears to originate from legitimate users across diverse geographic locations.

DDoS attacks can manifest in different forms, including volumetric attacks, protocol attacks, and application-layer attacks. Volumetric attacks aim to saturate the bandwidth of the target network by sending massive amounts of traffic, effectively clogging communication channels. Protocol attacks exploit weaknesses in network protocols, such as SYN floods or Ping of Death, to exhaust server resources or firewall state tables. Application-layer attacks, such as HTTP floods, focus on overloading specific services or applications, consuming CPU and memory to disrupt operations. Each type of DDoS attack targets availability, one of the core pillars of the CIA triad, and can have severe consequences including downtime, service degradation, financial loss, and reputational damage.

In the CAS-005 context, understanding DDoS attacks is crucial for designing resilient network and system architectures. Mitigation strategies require a multi-layered approach combining technical, procedural, and administrative controls. Techniques include traffic filtering to block malicious packets, rate limiting to prevent resource exhaustion, load balancing to distribute traffic efficiently, and the use of content delivery networks (CDNs) to offload traffic. Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) and anomaly detection mechanisms can detect abnormal patterns and respond in real-time. Organizations may also coordinate with internet service providers (ISPs) to divert or scrub traffic before it reaches critical systems.

Furthermore, DDoS attacks emphasize the importance of proactive incident response planning, redundancy, and failover strategies. High-availability systems, geographically distributed data centers, and cloud-based mitigation services can reduce the impact of large-scale attacks. Regular stress testing, simulation exercises, and monitoring help organizations understand their vulnerabilities and refine defensive measures.

CAS-005 candidates must also recognize that DDoS attacks are often used as smokescreens for other malicious activities, such as data breaches or ransomware deployment, highlighting the need for comprehensive situational awareness and layered defenses. By studying DDoS methodologies, detection techniques, and mitigation frameworks, candidates gain insight into the operational and strategic measures necessary to maintain system availability, resilience, and business continuity under attack conditions. Effective defense against DDoS attacks requires understanding both the technical mechanisms and organizational policies to reduce risk and ensure reliable service delivery.

Question 94:

Which type of authentication factor is something a user possesses, such as a smart card or security token?

A. Knowledge factor
B. Inherence factor
C. Possession factor
D. Location factor

 Answer: C. Possession factor

Explanation:

A possession factor, also known as “something the user has,” is one of the fundamental categories of authentication factors used to verify an individual’s identity. This type of authentication relies on physical items or devices that a user must carry or control to gain access to a system or resource. Common examples include smart cards, hardware tokens, USB security keys, key fobs, mobile authentication apps that generate one-time passwords (OTPs), and other cryptographic devices. The key principle behind possession factors is that access is only granted if the user can present or interact with the specific object tied to their identity, making it inherently more secure than relying solely on knowledge-based factors such as passwords.

Possession factors differ from other authentication types. Knowledge factors involve something the user knows, like a password, PIN, or passphrase, which can be stolen, guessed, or phished. Inherence factors involve biometric characteristics, such as fingerprints, iris scans, facial recognition, or voice recognition, which are inherent to the individual and cannot easily be shared. Location factors use contextual or environmental information, such as geolocation or network address, to determine access eligibility. While each factor has strengths and weaknesses, possession factors add a critical layer of security, particularly when combined with other factors in multi-factor authentication (MFA).

In a CAS-005 context, understanding possession factors is crucial for designing secure authentication systems. Possession factors mitigate risks associated with compromised passwords by requiring a physical object that an attacker would need to acquire. They also play an essential role in scenarios requiring strong identity assurance, such as accessing sensitive financial systems, corporate networks, government databases, or personal devices. Organizations must implement robust processes for issuing, managing, and revoking possession-based tokens to prevent misuse. Loss, theft, or duplication of tokens must be addressed through immediate deactivation and replacement procedures.

Possession factors also integrate with cryptographic techniques, such as one-time password generators and digital certificates stored on smart cards, to provide secure authentication that protects confidentiality, integrity, and non-repudiation. In addition, combining possession factors with knowledge or inherence factors provides layered security, which strengthens defense-in-depth strategies. CAS-005 candidates must recognize the operational challenges, such as ensuring user convenience, managing token lifecycle, and providing fallback options in case of lost or malfunctioning devices, without compromising security.

Finally, possession factors highlight the balance between security and usability. While they greatly reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access, organizations must train users on secure handling, encourage regular updates, and integrate them into a comprehensive identity and access management (IAM) framework. Candidates should understand that possession factors, when combined with other authentication methods, provide a strong foundation for protecting enterprise resources, enhancing compliance with regulatory requirements, and ensuring resilient access control mechanisms. Proper implementation of possession-based authentication reduces the risk of account compromise, phishing, and other identity-based attacks, making it a critical element in modern cybersecurity architecture.

Question 95:

Which type of access control model assigns permissions based on labels or classifications, commonly used in government or military environments?

A. Discretionary Access Control (DAC)
B. Mandatory Access Control (MAC)
C. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
D. Rule-Based Access Control

Answer: B. Mandatory Access Control (MAC)

Explanation:

Mandatory Access Control (MAC) is a highly structured access control model where access permissions are strictly enforced based on predefined security labels, classifications, or clearance levels. In this model, both resources (files, databases, applications) and users are assigned labels such as Top Secret, Secret, Confidential, or Unclassified, and the operating system or security infrastructure mediates access according to these labels. Users cannot alter access rights or override system-enforced policies; the system administrator or security policy defines and enforces the rules. This is in contrast to Discretionary Access Control (DAC), where the resource owner can determine who has access, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), which assigns permissions based on job functions or roles, and Rule-Based Access Control, which uses conditions like time of day, network location, or specific triggers to grant or deny access.

MAC is commonly implemented in government, military, and other high-security environments where strict control over sensitive information is essential. By using classification labels, MAC prevents users from accessing data above their clearance level and enforces separation between different levels of information. For example, a user cleared for Secret data cannot access Top Secret documents, even if they request them, ensuring the principle of least privilege is maintained at a systemic level. This rigid enforcement is crucial for protecting national security data, regulated corporate information, or any environment where breaches could have catastrophic consequences.

Implementation of MAC involves defining security policies, assigning appropriate labels to all resources, and mapping user clearances to these labels. Resources can also have hierarchical classifications, allowing a system to automatically enforce rules such as “no read up, no write down” in a lattice-based MAC system. Continuous auditing and monitoring are necessary to ensure compliance, detect anomalies, and prevent unauthorized access attempts. MAC complements encryption, network segmentation, and logging to provide a comprehensive approach to data security.

From a CAS-005 perspective, understanding MAC is essential because it emphasizes a controlled and non-discretionary approach to data access. MAC enhances confidentiality by strictly limiting exposure of sensitive data, supports compliance with regulatory frameworks such as NIST, DoD standards, or ISO/IEC 27001, and provides robust protection against insider threats or accidental data leaks. Candidates must also understand how MAC integrates with other security controls and how it contrasts with more flexible models like DAC or RBAC, which may be better suited for commercial or less sensitive environments.

Furthermore, MAC demonstrates the importance of combining technical and administrative controls. While technical enforcement ensures adherence to access policies, administrative measures like policy documentation, clearance management, and regular training support effective use of MAC. It illustrates a defense-in-depth approach, where multiple layers—classification, auditing, encryption, monitoring—work together to protect sensitive information. For CAS-005 candidates, mastery of MAC principles ensures they can design and implement high-security access controls that maintain confidentiality, integrity, and compliance in environments where strict data governance is critical.

Question 96:

Which type of attack captures network traffic in order to analyze sensitive information such as passwords or session tokens?

A. Sniffing
B. Spoofing
C. Pharming
D. DDoS

 Answer: A. Sniffing

 Explanation:

Sniffing is a network-based attack method where an attacker intercepts and monitors network traffic to capture sensitive information such as passwords, session tokens, emails, or other confidential data. This attack can be carried out using software-based tools or specialized hardware capable of analyzing network packets. Sniffing can be classified as passive or active: passive sniffing involves silently capturing network traffic without altering it, making detection difficult, while active sniffing involves manipulating traffic, such as ARP spoofing, to redirect or replicate data flows, increasing the likelihood of capturing sensitive communications. The primary goal of sniffing is to breach confidentiality by gaining unauthorized access to data in transit, which can then be used for further attacks, identity theft, or system compromise.

Sniffing is especially effective on networks that lack encryption or use weak security protocols. For example, legacy protocols such as HTTP, FTP, Telnet, or unsecured Wi-Fi networks transmit data in plaintext, making it trivial for attackers to intercept and analyze traffic. Even modern networks can be vulnerable if configurations are improper or if attackers gain access to network switches and routers. Tools such as Wireshark, tcpdump, or specialized sniffers are commonly used to capture and inspect packets, revealing usernames, passwords, session cookies, and other sensitive information. Attackers may combine sniffing with social engineering or credential reuse attacks to maximize impact.

Mitigation of sniffing attacks requires a combination of technical, administrative, and procedural controls. Encrypting data in transit is critical; using TLS/SSL for web traffic, secure email protocols like S/MIME or PGP, and VPNs for remote connections ensures that captured data cannot be interpreted by attackers. Network segmentation and proper VLAN configuration limit the scope of traffic exposure. Implementing secure Wi-Fi with WPA2/WPA3, disabling unneeded protocols, and enforcing strong authentication mechanisms further reduce risks. Network monitoring, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and anomaly detection can identify suspicious traffic patterns indicative of sniffing or ARP poisoning attempts. Endpoint security and strict access control policies also help prevent unauthorized devices from joining sensitive networks.

In CAS-005, understanding sniffing is crucial because it emphasizes confidentiality, one of the pillars of the CIA triad. Candidates must recognize how attackers exploit weaknesses in network infrastructure, unencrypted communications, and human behavior. Knowledge of sniffing enables cybersecurity professionals to design secure network architectures, enforce encryption standards, and implement layered defenses to protect sensitive enterprise information. Training users to avoid insecure networks and adhere to security policies further enhances protection.

Sniffing attacks demonstrate the importance of defense-in-depth: encrypting data, controlling access, monitoring traffic, and educating personnel collectively strengthen organizational security. By understanding sniffing, CAS-005 candidates can proactively identify vulnerabilities, implement effective mitigations, and ensure secure communications, preserving the confidentiality and integrity of enterprise data against network-based threats.

Question 97:

Which type of attack exploits trusted relationships between users and websites to perform unauthorized actions on behalf of authenticated users?

A. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
B. SQL Injection
C. Phishing
D. XSS

Answer: A. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)

Explanation:

Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is a type of web-based attack in which an attacker exploits the trust that a website has in an authenticated user. Unlike other attacks that directly compromise a user’s credentials or the server, CSRF manipulates the authenticated user’s browser to perform actions without their knowledge or consent. Essentially, the attacker tricks the victim into submitting requests to a web application where the user is already authenticated, causing the application to execute unauthorized actions on the user’s behalf. Common targets include changing account settings, initiating financial transactions, or modifying user data.

The mechanics of CSRF typically involve embedding malicious requests in emails, advertisements, or websites that the user visits. When the victim’s browser automatically includes authentication tokens or cookies in the request, the web application assumes the request is legitimate. This makes CSRF particularly dangerous because it does not require the attacker to steal credentials directly; the attack leverages the session established by the user’s prior authentication. Unlike phishing, which relies on tricking the user into voluntarily revealing sensitive information, CSRF exploits existing trust and active sessions. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) and SQL injection also target web applications, but their methods differ: XSS injects scripts to run in the user’s browser, and SQL injection manipulates backend databases through malicious input.

Defending against CSRF requires both technical and procedural controls. Token-based verification is a widely adopted approach, where each request includes a unique, unpredictable token tied to the user’s session. The server validates the token before executing the action, ensuring that only legitimate requests succeed. Implementing same-site cookie attributes prevents cookies from being sent in cross-site requests, reducing the likelihood of exploitation. Input validation and careful session management also play a role, as does educating developers on secure coding practices. In addition, web application firewalls (WAFs) can help detect and block suspicious request patterns.

From a CAS-005 perspective, understanding CSRF highlights the importance of protecting integrity and preventing unauthorized actions within web applications. CSRF attacks demonstrate how attackers can bypass authentication mechanisms without stealing passwords, emphasizing the need for layered defenses, secure session management, and proactive security testing. For enterprises, implementing defenses against CSRF is part of a broader strategy to safeguard sensitive user data, maintain system reliability, and comply with regulatory requirements that demand secure handling of information.

By addressing CSRF vulnerabilities, organizations improve trust in their applications and reduce the risk of financial loss, reputational damage, and unauthorized access. CAS-005 candidates should recognize the significance of CSRF as a common web application threat, understand the attack vectors, and be capable of recommending both preventive and mitigative measures. Incorporating token-based mechanisms, same-site cookies, secure session management, and developer education collectively strengthens application security and aligns with the principles of defense-in-depth, ensuring that systems are resilient against sophisticated exploitation attempts targeting authenticated users.

Question 98:

Which type of security testing involves authorized simulated attacks to evaluate the effectiveness of security controls?

A. Vulnerability scanning
B. Penetration testing
C. Security audit
D. Code review

Answer: B. Penetration testing

 Explanation:

Penetration testing, often referred to as ethical hacking, is a proactive security assessment methodology in which authorized security professionals simulate real-world attacks against an organization’s systems, applications, or network infrastructure. The purpose of penetration testing is to evaluate the effectiveness of existing security controls, identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors, and measure the potential impact of those vulnerabilities if exploited. Unlike automated vulnerability scanning, which simply identifies potential weaknesses without exploiting them, penetration testing actively attempts to compromise the system to demonstrate how an attacker might gain unauthorized access or disrupt operations. This provides organizations with a deeper understanding of security risks and prioritizes remediation based on real-world impact.

Penetration testing follows a structured methodology, which generally includes phases such as planning and reconnaissance, scanning and enumeration, exploitation, post-exploitation, and reporting. During the planning phase, testers define the scope, objectives, rules of engagement, and legal permissions to ensure that testing is conducted ethically and safely. In the reconnaissance and scanning phases, testers gather information about the target environment, including network topology, services, applications, and potential vulnerabilities. Exploitation involves attempting to use identified weaknesses to gain unauthorized access, escalate privileges, or exfiltrate data. Post-exploitation evaluates the potential damage and establishes the persistence of any compromise. Finally, reporting provides detailed findings, risk ratings, and actionable remediation recommendations to strengthen the security posture.

Penetration testing differs from other security evaluation methods. Vulnerability scanning is automated and identifies known weaknesses but does not confirm whether they are exploitable. Security audits focus on compliance with policies, standards, or regulatory requirements, while code reviews examine source code for programming errors and potential vulnerabilities. Penetration testing uniquely combines technical skill, creativity, and real-world attack simulation to provide insights into both the likelihood and impact of security threats.

In the context of CAS-005, understanding penetration testing is critical because it emphasizes proactive risk management and operational security. Penetration testing not only validates technical controls such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls but also exposes weaknesses in processes, configuration, and even user behavior. Organizations benefit from penetration testing by identifying gaps before attackers exploit them, informing patching priorities, and reinforcing the need for layered security defenses.

Effective penetration testing requires qualified personnel, ethical guidelines, careful scoping, and integration with broader security programs. Results must be actionable and tied to risk management strategies, including mitigation, monitoring, and continuous improvement. Regular penetration testing, combined with other security assessments, helps organizations maintain resilience against evolving threats, supports compliance initiatives, and ensures that confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical assets are preserved. CAS-005 candidates must understand how penetration testing aligns with overall security frameworks, demonstrating the practical application of technical and administrative controls in defending enterprise systems.

Question 99:

Which type of cryptography transforms readable data into ciphertext using the same key for encryption and decryption?

A. Asymmetric cryptography
B. Symmetric cryptography
C. Hashing
D. Public key infrastructure

Answer: B. Symmetric cryptograph

 Explanation:

Symmetric cryptography, also known as secret-key cryptography, is a cryptographic method in which the same key is used for both encryption and decryption of data. This means that both the sender and the recipient must have access to the identical secret key and must keep it confidential. The fundamental principle behind symmetric cryptography is that the security of the communication relies entirely on the secrecy of the shared key. If the key is exposed or intercepted by an unauthorized party, all data encrypted with that key can be decrypted, compromising confidentiality. Therefore, key distribution and management are critical considerations when implementing symmetric cryptography in any secure system.

Symmetric cryptography is highly efficient and well-suited for encrypting large volumes of data because it typically requires less computational overhead than asymmetric cryptography. Common symmetric algorithms include AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), DES (Data Encryption Standard), Triple DES, and ChaCha20. AES, in particular, is widely adopted across industries for its strong security and efficiency, supporting 128-bit, 192-bit, and 256-bit key lengths. Symmetric cryptography is used in a variety of applications, including virtual private networks (VPNs), disk and file encryption, secure messaging systems, and data-at-rest protection in storage devices. Its speed and efficiency make it ideal for real-time applications and bulk data encryption.

By contrast, asymmetric cryptography uses a pair of mathematically related keys—a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption—allowing secure communication without the need to share a secret key in advance. While asymmetric cryptography provides enhanced key distribution security, it is computationally more intensive and therefore less suitable for encrypting large amounts of data. Hashing, another cryptographic method, is a one-way function that generates a fixed-length output to verify data integrity, but it does not allow recovery of the original plaintext. Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a framework for managing public and private keys, issuing digital certificates, and ensuring trust across digital communications, supporting both symmetric and asymmetric cryptography but not performing encryption itself.

In the context of CAS-005, understanding symmetric cryptography is essential for securing communications, implementing encryption protocols, and protecting sensitive information. Candidates must recognize that strong key management practices—such as secure key generation, storage, rotation, and distribution—are fundamental to maintaining confidentiality. Symmetric cryptography is often used in hybrid encryption systems, where symmetric keys encrypt data efficiently, while asymmetric keys secure the distribution of the symmetric key. This combination leverages the efficiency of symmetric encryption and the secure key exchange of asymmetric encryption.

Symmetric cryptography also plays a key role in ensuring data privacy in modern enterprise environments, including cloud storage, secure communications, and compliance with regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA. Properly implemented, it maintains confidentiality, prevents unauthorized access, and supports the integrity of sensitive systems. Understanding its strengths, limitations, and operational requirements is critical for CAS-005 candidates to design secure systems that protect enterprise information against unauthorized disclosure or compromise.

Question 100:

Which cloud deployment model combines private and public cloud resources to balance security and scalability?

A. Public cloud
B. Private cloud
C. Hybrid cloud
D. Community cloud

Answer: C. Hybrid cloud

 Explanation:

A hybrid cloud is a cloud computing deployment model that combines elements of both private and public clouds, allowing organizations to take advantage of the benefits of each while mitigating their limitations. In a hybrid cloud environment, sensitive workloads or critical applications can be hosted on a private cloud infrastructure, which is either managed internally or by a dedicated third-party provider. This ensures greater control, security, and compliance for data that requires strict protection. At the same time, non-sensitive workloads, such as web applications, development environments, or scalable services, can be deployed on public cloud infrastructure provided by third-party vendors. This approach enables organizations to leverage the elasticity, cost-efficiency, and scalability of public cloud resources without compromising the security or privacy of critical data.

Public cloud services are fully managed by cloud providers, offering infrastructure, platforms, or software on-demand. While public clouds are highly scalable and reduce capital expenditure, they introduce concerns around multi-tenancy, data residency, and regulatory compliance. Private clouds, in contrast, are dedicated to a single organization, providing enhanced security, control, and the ability to tailor configurations to specific business or regulatory needs. Community clouds are shared among multiple organizations with similar requirements, such as government agencies or healthcare providers, but are not as flexible as hybrid clouds for balancing diverse workload demands.

For CAS-005 candidates, understanding hybrid cloud architectures is crucial because they highlight the intersection of security, scalability, and operational efficiency in modern IT environments. Implementing a hybrid cloud requires careful planning and integration between private and public resources. Security considerations are paramount and include network segmentation to isolate sensitive workloads, strong identity and access management to enforce least privilege across environments, data encryption both at rest and in transit, continuous monitoring for potential threats, and consistent application of security policies across all cloud platforms. Additionally, hybrid cloud models often necessitate robust configuration management, compliance checks, and disaster recovery planning to ensure seamless failover between public and private infrastructures.

Hybrid cloud deployment also supports business continuity and operational flexibility. Organizations can dynamically allocate workloads based on demand, offload peak processing to public cloud resources, and maintain critical operations on private infrastructure. This model facilitates innovation by allowing developers to experiment in a scalable, cost-efficient environment without jeopardizing production systems. From a compliance perspective, hybrid clouds allow sensitive data to remain under organizational control while utilizing public cloud resources for less regulated tasks.

In CAS-005, candidates should recognize that hybrid cloud models embody the principles of confidentiality, integrity, and availability by enabling secure, resilient, and adaptable computing environments. Hybrid clouds represent a strategic balance between performance, cost, security, and compliance, making them ideal for enterprises with diverse workloads and evolving business requirements. They require a combination of technical, administrative, and procedural controls to ensure data protection, regulatory adherence, and consistent operational performance across multiple cloud environments. Understanding hybrid cloud deployment is essential for designing secure architectures, implementing cloud-based services responsibly, and mitigating risks associated with modern cloud adoption.