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CISA Practice Question: Uses risk-based authentication (RBA) for user…
An organization uses risk-based authentication (RBA) for user access. Which of the following factors would MOST likely trigger a step-up authentication?
⚠ Common exam trap
Test-takers frequently confuse 'step-up authentication' with 'multi-factor authentication' and assume any deviation from normal triggers it, but only high-risk anomalies (like unusual location or impossible travel) typically do, while low-risk factors like known devices or business hours do not.
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
✓
User accessing sensitive data from an unusual location.
Risk-based authentication (RBA) evaluates the risk level of each access attempt based on contextual factors. An unusual location is a high-risk indicator because it deviates from the user's established behavioral baseline, often triggering step-up authentication (e.g., requiring a one-time passcode or biometric verification) to verify the user's identity before granting access to sensitive data.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
User logging in from a known device.
Why it's wrong here
Known devices are trusted and do not trigger step-up.
- ✓
User accessing sensitive data from an unusual location.
Why this is correct
Unusual location indicates higher risk and may trigger step-up.
- ✗
User entering correct password.
Why it's wrong here
Correct password alone does not trigger step-up.
- ✗
User logging in during business hours.
Why it's wrong here
Normal business hours are not a risk factor.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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