hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CAS-004 Implementing single sign-on using SAML 2.0 Practice Question
A company is implementing single sign-on using SAML 2.0. A security architect is reviewing the authentication flow and notices that the identity provider (IdP) does not digitally sign the SAML assertions. Which of the following is the most significant security risk?
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
✓
The assertion could be modified in transit
Without signing, an attacker can modify the assertion in transit, potentially impersonating a user or altering attributes, leading to unauthorized access.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
The assertion could be modified in transit
Why this is correct
Without a signature, the service provider cannot verify that the assertion was not tampered with, allowing attribute or identity changes.
- ✗
The assertion could be intercepted and read
Why it's wrong here
Confidentiality is provided by encryption, not signing; signing ensures integrity and authenticity.
- ✗
The IdP could be spoofed
Why it's wrong here
Signing helps verify the IdP's identity, but without signing, an attacker could also spoof the IdP; however, modification is the more direct risk.
- ✗
The assertion could be replayed
Why it's wrong here
Replay is mitigated by timestamps and nonces, not signature; signing does not prevent replay alone.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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