Quick Answer
The correct choice is lack of application-layer encryption, because the core issue is that sensitive data is transmitted in plaintext over HTTPS, meaning the TLS protocol encrypts the transport channel but does not encrypt the actual payload at the application layer. This distinction is critical: while HTTPS protects data in transit from eavesdropping, it leaves the plaintext data exposed if the TLS termination point—such as a reverse proxy or load balancer—is compromised, or if server logs capture the unencrypted payload. On the Certified Ethical Hacker CEH exam, this concept tests your understanding of defense-in-depth and the difference between transport-layer security and end-to-end application-layer encryption. A common trap is assuming HTTPS alone guarantees full confidentiality; remember that TLS only secures the pipe, not the message inside it. Memory tip: think of HTTPS as a secure envelope, but application-layer encryption is a locked box inside that envelope—if someone opens the envelope, the box still protects the contents.
This CEH practice question tests your understanding of cryptography and malware analysis. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. 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.
During a penetration test, an ethical hacker finds that a web application transmits sensitive data in plaintext over HTTPS. Which of the following best describes this security issue?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "best"
Why it matters: Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
Weak TLS cipher suite
Why wrong: The issue is not about cipher strength; HTTPS is properly configured.
Lack of application-layer encryption
The data is encrypted in transit but not at rest or before being sent; the application does not encrypt sensitive fields.
SSL stripping attack
Why wrong: There is no indication of an active downgrade attack.
Man-in-the-middle attack
Why wrong: HTTPS prevents MITM; the issue is application-side.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Lack of application-layer encryption
The core issue is that the web application transmits sensitive data in plaintext over HTTPS, meaning the data is encrypted in transit by TLS but not encrypted at the application layer. This leaves the data vulnerable to exposure if the TLS termination point (e.g., a reverse proxy or load balancer) is compromised or if logs capture the plaintext payload. Application-layer encryption (e.g., encrypting the data before sending it over HTTPS) ensures end-to-end confidentiality, even if the TLS channel is broken or inspected.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Weak TLS cipher suite
Why it's wrong here
The issue is not about cipher strength; HTTPS is properly configured.
Lack of application-layer encryption
Why this is correct
The data is encrypted in transit but not at rest or before being sent; the application does not encrypt sensitive fields.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "best" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
SSL stripping attack
Why it's wrong here
There is no indication of an active downgrade attack.
Man-in-the-middle attack
Why it's wrong here
HTTPS prevents MITM; the issue is application-side.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates confuse 'encrypted in transit' (TLS) with 'encrypted at the application layer,' assuming HTTPS alone provides end-to-end data confidentiality, but the CEH exam tests the distinction between transport-layer and application-layer encryption.
Detailed technical explanation
Under the hood, HTTPS provides transport-layer security via TLS, but the application payload (e.g., JSON, XML) remains in plaintext within the encrypted tunnel. If an attacker gains access to the server's memory, logs, or a TLS-terminating proxy, they can read the sensitive data directly. Real-world examples include credit card numbers sent in a POST body over HTTPS without additional encryption, which could be exposed in server logs or via a memory dump. Application-layer encryption, such as using a pre-shared key or asymmetric encryption on the payload before HTTPS, ensures that even if TLS is compromised, the data remains confidential.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
What to study next
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FAQ
Cryptography and Malware Analysis — This question tests Cryptography and Malware Analysis — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Lack of application-layer encryption — The core issue is that the web application transmits sensitive data in plaintext over HTTPS, meaning the data is encrypted in transit by TLS but not encrypted at the application layer. This leaves the data vulnerable to exposure if the TLS termination point (e.g., a reverse proxy or load balancer) is compromised or if logs capture the plaintext payload. Application-layer encryption (e.g., encrypting the data before sending it over HTTPS) ensures end-to-end confidentiality, even if the TLS channel is broken or inspected.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Yes — watch for: "best". Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 11, 2026
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