- A
Deploy only a web application firewall and keep the code unchanged.
Why wrong: A WAF can help reduce exposure, but it does not fix the underlying unsafe query construction in the application code.
- B
Use parameterized queries or prepared statements in the application code.
Parameterized queries separate code from user-supplied data, which prevents injected input from being interpreted as SQL instructions. That directly addresses the flaw described in the scenario and is the most reliable long-term fix. It also scales better than trying to block every malicious pattern with filtering or a perimeter tool. In secure development, fixing the query construction is preferred because it removes the root cause instead of only reducing symptoms at the edge.
- C
Store the database password as a salted hash in the application configuration.
Why wrong: Hashing a database password does not prevent the application from building unsafe SQL queries with attacker-controlled input.
- D
Disable HTTPS so the request body is easier to inspect by network tools.
Why wrong: Turning off encryption weakens confidentiality and does not stop SQL injection, because the problem exists in server-side query handling.
SY0-701 Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations Practice Question
This SY0-701 practice question tests your understanding of threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigations. 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 developer reports that a search field returns all customer records when they enter a single quote followed by OR 1=1. Security confirms the web app concatenates user input directly into SQL statements. Which remediation is best?
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 parameterized queries or prepared statements in the application code.
Option B is correct because parameterized queries or prepared statements separate SQL logic from user input, preventing the concatenation that allows SQL injection. By using placeholders (e.g., `?` or `:param`) and binding user input as data, the database engine treats the single quote and `OR 1=1` as literal string values, not executable SQL code. This directly remediates the root cause—dynamic SQL construction—without relying on external filters or insecure workarounds.
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.
- ✗
Deploy only a web application firewall and keep the code unchanged.
Why it's wrong here
A WAF can help reduce exposure, but it does not fix the underlying unsafe query construction in the application code.
- ✓
Use parameterized queries or prepared statements in the application code.
Why this is correct
Parameterized queries separate code from user-supplied data, which prevents injected input from being interpreted as SQL instructions. That directly addresses the flaw described in the scenario and is the most reliable long-term fix. It also scales better than trying to block every malicious pattern with filtering or a perimeter tool. In secure development, fixing the query construction is preferred because it removes the root cause instead of only reducing symptoms at the edge.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✗
Store the database password as a salted hash in the application configuration.
Why it's wrong here
Hashing a database password does not prevent the application from building unsafe SQL queries with attacker-controlled input.
- ✗
Disable HTTPS so the request body is easier to inspect by network tools.
Why it's wrong here
Turning off encryption weakens confidentiality and does not stop SQL injection, because the problem exists in server-side query handling.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
The trap here is that candidates may think a WAF (Option A) is sufficient because it blocks common payloads like `' OR 1=1`, but the exam emphasizes that security must be implemented at the code level, not just at the network perimeter.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Under the hood, parameterized queries work by sending the SQL statement template and the parameter values separately to the database server (e.g., via the wire protocol in PostgreSQL or SQL Server). The database compiles the query plan before substituting parameters, so user input is never interpreted as SQL syntax—even if it contains malicious characters. A real-world scenario: in a Java JDBC `PreparedStatement`, the driver escapes special characters automatically, but if a developer mistakenly uses string concatenation (e.g., `"SELECT * FROM users WHERE id = '" + input + "'"`), the injection succeeds; the fix is to use `preparedStatement.setString(1, input)`.
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.
TExam Day Tips
- 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
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this SY0-701 question test?
Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations — This question tests Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Use parameterized queries or prepared statements in the application code. — Option B is correct because parameterized queries or prepared statements separate SQL logic from user input, preventing the concatenation that allows SQL injection. By using placeholders (e.g., `?` or `:param`) and binding user input as data, the database engine treats the single quote and `OR 1=1` as literal string values, not executable SQL code. This directly remediates the root cause—dynamic SQL construction—without relying on external filters or insecure workarounds.
What should I do if I get this SY0-701 question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 11, 2026
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