- A
SSRF via XXE
XXE can be used to make server-side requests to internal resources (SSRF).
- B
File read via XXE
XXE can read local files by defining an entity pointing to a file.
- C
Command injection
Why wrong: Command injection involves injecting system commands, not XML entities.
- D
SQL injection
Why wrong: SQL injection targets databases via SQL syntax, not XML.
- E
XSS
Why wrong: XSS injects client-side scripts, not server-side file reads.
Question 543 of 1,000
PT0-002 Attacks and Exploits Practice Question
This PT0-002 practice question tests your understanding of attacks and exploits. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A penetration tester is exploiting a web application and discovers an endpoint that allows an attacker to read arbitrary files on the server by manipulating XML input. The application uses an XML parser that does not disable external entities. Which TWO attacks can the tester perform using this vulnerability? (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
✓
SSRF via XXE
XXE (XML External Entity) allows file reads and can also lead to SSRF if the entity points to an internal URL. Command injection typically requires different input. SQL injection needs SQL syntax. XSS is client-side.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
SSRF via XXE
Why this is correct
XXE can be used to make server-side requests to internal resources (SSRF).
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✓
File read via XXE
Why this is correct
XXE can read local files by defining an entity pointing to a file.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✗
Command injection
Why it's wrong here
Command injection involves injecting system commands, not XML entities.
- ✗
SQL injection
Why it's wrong here
SQL injection targets databases via SQL syntax, not XML.
- ✗
XSS
Why it's wrong here
XSS injects client-side scripts, not server-side file reads.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Trap categories for this question
Command / output trap
Command injection involves injecting system commands, not XML entities.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
- Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
- Use explanations to understand the rule behind the answer.
TExam Day Tips
- Underline the problem statement mentally.
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A security team runs a vulnerability scan on a web application and discovers an unpatched SQL injection flaw. The team prioritises remediation by CVSS score — critical flaws are patched within 24 hours, high within 7 days. Questions like this test whether you understand vulnerability management processes, scanning tools, and remediation prioritisation.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which PT0-002 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
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Attacks and Exploits — study guide chapter
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this PT0-002 question test?
Attacks and Exploits — This question tests Attacks and Exploits — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: SSRF via XXE — XXE (XML External Entity) allows file reads and can also lead to SSRF if the entity points to an internal URL. Command injection typically requires different input. SQL injection needs SQL syntax. XSS is client-side.
What should I do if I get this PT0-002 question wrong?
Identify which PT0-002 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
About these practice questions
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Last reviewed: Jul 4, 2026
This PT0-002 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 PT0-002 exam.
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