CAS-004 Security Operations Practice Question
A penetration tester is performing an assessment of a web application. During reconnaissance, the tester discovers a publicly accessible Jenkins server with default credentials. The tester gains access and finds a build job that executes arbitrary commands. What is the most effective way for the tester to escalate privileges and move laterally within the network?
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
✓
Use Jenkins to execute a reverse shell and then perform pass-the-hash
Jenkins can be configured as a Windows service, often running with high privileges (e.g., SYSTEM). Using the Jenkins script console or a build job, the tester can execute commands to extract credentials, install backdoors, or move laterally. This is a common attack path.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Use Jenkins to execute a reverse shell and then perform pass-the-hash
Why this is correct
Exploiting Jenkins' execution capability to gain a shell with high privileges is a direct method for lateral movement.
- ✗
Exploit a SQL injection vulnerability in the web app
Why it's wrong here
There is no indication of SQL injection; Jenkins access already provides a foothold.
- ✗
Use a vulnerability scanner to find additional CVEs
Why it's wrong here
Scanning may alert defenders and is slower than leveraging existing access.
- ✗
Deploy a ransomware payload to encrypt files
Why it's wrong here
Ransomware is destructive and not typical for penetration testing; the goal is to demonstrate risk, not cause damage.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CAS-005 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA 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 CAS-005 exam.