hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
FC0-U71 Practice Question: A software developer writes code that stores…
A software developer writes code that stores sensitive user data. To comply with data protection regulations, which application-level security measure should be implemented?
⚠ Common exam trap
Test-takers frequently confuse access control measures (like MFA) with data protection measures (like encryption), assuming that restricting who can log in is sufficient to protect stored data, but regulations require data to be encrypted regardless of access controls.
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 encryption for data storage and transmission.
Encryption (e.g., AES-256 for data at rest and TLS 1.3 for data in transit) renders sensitive user data unreadable to unauthorized parties, directly addressing data protection regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA that mandate confidentiality. This is an application-level security measure implemented within the software code or database layer, not a network or perimeter control.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Install a firewall on the server.
Why it's wrong here
Firewalls control network traffic but do not encrypt stored data.
- ✗
Run regular antivirus scans.
Why it's wrong here
Antivirus detects malicious software but does not protect data from unauthorized access.
- ✓
Use encryption for data storage and transmission.
Why this is correct
Encryption renders data unreadable without a key, ensuring confidentiality.
- ✗
Require multi-factor authentication for login.
Why it's wrong here
MFA secures access but does not protect data once accessed.
Quick reference
Symmetric Encryption Algorithm Comparison
| Algorithm | Key Size | Block Size | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AES-128 | 128-bit | 128-bit | Current standard | NIST approved; WPA3, TLS |
| AES-256 | 256-bit | 128-bit | Current standard | Preferred for sensitive / govt data |
| 3DES | 112-bit effective | 64-bit | Deprecated (2023) | Replaced by AES |
| DES | 56-bit | 64-bit | Broken | Cracked in < 24 h; never deploy |
| ChaCha20 | 256-bit | Stream cipher | Current | TLS 1.3, WireGuard |
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This FC0-U71 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 FC0-U71 exam.