easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
200-201 Practice Question: During a security audit, an analyst discovers…
During a security audit, an analyst discovers that several employees have shared their login credentials with colleagues to expedite work. Which policy enforcement mechanism would be most effective in preventing this behavior?
⚠ Common exam trap
Watch out — candidates often choose security awareness training (Option D) because it seems like a logical educational fix, but Cisco tests the distinction between administrative controls (training) and technical enforcement mechanisms (MFA) that actually prevent the behavior at the authentication layer.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Implement multi-factor authentication.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is the most effective enforcement mechanism because it requires a second factor (e.g., a one-time passcode from an authenticator app, a hardware token, or a biometric) in addition to the password. Even if employees share their passwords, MFA prevents unauthorized access because the second factor is tied to the individual's device or identity and cannot be easily shared. This directly addresses the root cause of credential sharing by making shared credentials useless without the additional factor.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Implement a password complexity policy.
Why it's wrong here
Complex passwords do not prevent sharing.
- ✓
Implement multi-factor authentication.
Why this is correct
MFA requires a physical token or biometric, making sharing impractical.
- ✗
Enforce a password change policy every 30 days.
Why it's wrong here
Frequent changes may annoy users but do not prevent sharing.
- ✗
Conduct annual security awareness training.
Why it's wrong here
Training educates but does not enforce or prevent sharing.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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