The correct answer is data exfiltration via the MySQL instance. This is because the binary log entry records a SELECT ... INTO OUTFILE statement, which writes the entire customers table to a writable file path like /tmp/export.csv, a classic technique for mysql binary log select into outfile exfiltration where an attacker exports sensitive database contents to a file they can later retrieve. On the Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator CHFI exam, this tests your ability to recognize malicious query patterns in forensic artifacts; a common trap is mistaking this for a routine backup or legitimate export, but the key clue is the file being written to a world-writable temporary directory rather than a secured backup location. Remember the memory tip: “OUTFILE to /tmp equals exfil” — if the destination is a non-standard, publicly accessible path, treat it as a red flag for data theft.
CHFI Application, Email and Cloud Forensics Practice Question
This CHFI practice question tests your understanding of application, email and cloud forensics. 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.
In a database forensic investigation, you recover a MySQL binary log with the following entry: #230110 13:45:22 server id 1 end_log_pos 123456 Query thread_id=100 exec_time=0 error_code=0 SET TIMESTAMP=1673358322; SELECT * FROM customers INTO OUTFILE '/tmp/export.csv';. What does this indicate?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Data exfiltration via the MySQL instance
This log entry records a SELECT ... INTO OUTFILE statement that exports the customers table to a CSV file. This is a common technique for data exfiltration, as it writes data to a file that can be accessed by the attacker.
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.
✓
Data exfiltration via the MySQL instance
Why this is correct
The query exports customer data to a file in /tmp, which can be retrieved by the attacker. This is a known data exfiltration technique.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
A backup operation was performed
Why it's wrong here
While it exports data, the use of INTO OUTFILE to /tmp/export.csv suggests unauthorized exfiltration rather than a legitimate backup.
✗
A stored procedure execution
Why it's wrong here
No stored procedure is invoked; it's a simple SELECT statement.
✗
A SQL injection attack using UNION
Why it's wrong here
No UNION or injection payload is present; it's a direct query.
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.
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 practitioner preparing for the CHFI exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this CHFI question in full detail.
Identify which CHFI 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.
Application, Email and Cloud Forensics — This question tests Application, Email and Cloud Forensics — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Data exfiltration via the MySQL instance — This log entry records a SELECT ... INTO OUTFILE statement that exports the customers table to a CSV file. This is a common technique for data exfiltration, as it writes data to a file that can be accessed by the attacker.
What should I do if I get this CHFI question wrong?
Identify which CHFI 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.
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This CHFI practice question is part of Courseiva's free EC-Council 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 CHFI exam.
Question Discussion
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