KCSA Overview OF Cloud Native Security Practice Question
Which THREE of the following represent security risks or anti-patterns in cloud native application design? (Choose THREE)
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
✓
Exposing the Kubernetes dashboard or debug endpoints publicly without authentication
Running containers as root, storing unencrypted secrets, and exposing dashboard endpoints without auth are major security anti-patterns.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Exposing the Kubernetes dashboard or debug endpoints publicly without authentication
Why this is correct
Exposing unauthenticated administrative interfaces invites compromise.
- ✗
Implementing automated vulnerability scanning in CI/CD pipelines
Why it's wrong here
Vulnerability scanning is a security best practice.
- ✗
Using immutable infrastructure principles for cluster worker nodes
Why it's wrong here
Immutable infrastructure is a best practice, not a risk.
- ✓
Running container processes with root user IDs inside the container
Why this is correct
Running as root increases container breakout impact.
- ✓
Storing sensitive API keys and database passwords in plain text within Kubernetes ConfigMaps
Why this is correct
ConfigMaps are unencrypted; secrets should use Kubernetes Secrets or external secret stores.
About these practice questions
One of 320 original KCSA practice questions on Courseiva, each with a full explanation and wrong-answer analysis — not exam dumps or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed August 2026 · checked against the official CNCF / Linux Foundation exam blueprint
This KCSA practice question is part of Courseiva's free CNCF / Linux Foundation certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the KCSA exam.