CAS-004 Security Operations Practice Question
A penetration tester is planning a test for a client that has a critical web application. The rules of engagement specify that the tester must avoid causing a denial of service (DoS). Which THREE actions are appropriate for the tester to include in the scope? (Select 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
✓
Port scanning to identify open services on the web server
Port scanning, SQL injection testing, and directory brute-forcing are common penetration testing activities that do not inherently cause DoS. DoS attacks and social engineering without approval are typically out of scope.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Conducting social engineering attacks against employees without prior approval
Why it's wrong here
Social engineering requires separate approval and could disrupt operations if not coordinated.
- ✓
Port scanning to identify open services on the web server
Why this is correct
Port scanning is a standard reconnaissance technique that does not cause DoS.
- ✗
Performing a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack to test resilience
Why it's wrong here
DoS attacks are explicitly prohibited by the rules of engagement.
- ✓
Attempting to brute-force directories and files on the web server
Why this is correct
Directory brute-forcing is a reconnaissance technique that does not cause DoS.
- ✓
Testing for SQL injection vulnerabilities in input fields
Why this is correct
SQL injection testing can be done carefully without causing DoS; it is a common test.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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