200-201 Network Intrusion Analysis Practice Question
In a PCAP, an analyst sees a large outbound data transfer over FTP to an external IP address during non-business hours. The source host is a database server. Which phase of the Cyber Kill Chain does this represent?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between 'Actions on Objectives' and 'Exploitation' by presenting a post-compromise activity (like data exfiltration) and expecting candidates to recognize it as the final phase, not the initial breach.
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
✓
Actions on Objectives
The Cyber Kill Chain's 'Actions on Objectives' phase is where the attacker achieves their ultimate goal, such as exfiltrating data. In this scenario, a large outbound FTP transfer from a database server to an external IP during non-business hours directly indicates data theft, which is the final objective of the intrusion. FTP (port 21/20) is used here as the exfiltration protocol, moving sensitive data out of the network.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Installation
Why it's wrong here
Installation deploys malware.
- ✓
Actions on Objectives
Why this is correct
Exfiltration is an action on objectives.
- ✗
Weaponization
Why it's wrong here
Weaponization creates the payload.
- ✗
Exploitation
Why it's wrong here
Exploitation triggers vulnerability.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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