CAS-004 Security Architecture Practice Question
A security architect is reviewing API security for a financial services platform that uses OAuth 2.0 for authorization and JWTs for token exchange. The platform must protect against common API threats such as token theft and injection attacks. Which TWO controls should be implemented to mitigate these specific threats? (Choose TWO.)
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
✓
Rate limiting on API endpoints
Rate limiting helps prevent token brute-force and DoS attacks, while input validation prevents injection attacks (e.g., SQL injection, XSS) on API endpoints. OAuth 2.0 scopes define permissions but do not directly mitigate token theft. API gateways can enforce many policies but are not a specific control. Short token lifetimes reduce the window of token theft but do not prevent injection.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Implementing an API gateway
Why it's wrong here
An API gateway can aggregate security controls but is not a specific control for token theft or injection.
- ✗
Using OAuth 2.0 scopes
Why it's wrong here
Scopes define token permissions but do not directly protect against token theft or injection.
- ✓
Rate limiting on API endpoints
Why this is correct
Rate limiting mitigates brute-force attacks on tokens and prevents denial of service.
- ✓
Input validation and sanitization
Why this is correct
Input validation prevents injection attacks by ensuring only expected data is processed.
- ✗
Short token expiration times
Why it's wrong here
Short expirations reduce the impact of token theft but do not address injection attacks.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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