Quick Answer
The answer is database encryption at rest and database activity monitoring (DAM). Encryption at rest renders stored data unreadable if physical storage is compromised, directly preventing unauthorized access by ensuring that even if an attacker bypasses perimeter defenses, the data remains ciphertext without the proper keys. Database activity monitoring complements this by analyzing SQL traffic in real time, detecting anomalous queries, and automatically blocking unauthorized attempts to read or exfiltrate sensitive data. On the CISA exam, this pairing tests your understanding of defense-in-depth for data at rest and in use; a common trap is choosing network segmentation or strong passwords alone, which fail when credentials are stolen or vulnerabilities are exploited. Remember the mnemonic “E-DAM” — Encryption stops storage theft, DAM stops query abuse — to recall that both are needed to close the gap between physical and logical access controls.
This CISA practice question tests your understanding of protection of information assets. 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.
Which TWO of the following are effective controls to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data in a database? (Choose two.)
Database activity monitoring (DAM)
DAM detects and blocks unauthorized access.
Strong password policy
Why wrong: Passwords can be compromised.
Database encryption at rest
Encryption protects data confidentiality.
Regular patch management
Why wrong: Patching addresses vulnerabilities, not access control.
Network segmentation
Why wrong: Segmentation limits but does not prevent access.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Database activity monitoring (DAM)
Options B and D are correct. Encryption at rest protects data if storage is accessed. Database activity monitoring (DAM) detects and can block unauthorized queries. Option A is wrong because network segmentation alone does not prevent access if credentials are compromised. Option C is wrong because strong passwords are good but not sufficient. Option E is wrong because regular patching addresses vulnerabilities but not access control.
Key principle: NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Database activity monitoring (DAM)
Why this is correct
DAM detects and blocks unauthorized access.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
Strong password policy
Why it's wrong here
Passwords can be compromised.
Database encryption at rest
Why this is correct
Encryption protects data confidentiality.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
Regular patch management
Why it's wrong here
Patching addresses vulnerabilities, not access control.
Network segmentation
Why it's wrong here
Segmentation limits but does not prevent access.
Common exam traps
NAT is not only about the public address. The inside/outside interface roles and the ACL or rule that matches traffic are just as important.
Detailed technical explanation
NAT questions usually test address translation, overload/PAT behaviour, static mappings and whether the right traffic is being translated. Read the interface direction and address terms carefully.
Key takeaway
NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
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
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related CISA NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
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FAQ
Protection of Information Assets — This question tests Protection of Information Assets — Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address..
The correct answer is: Database activity monitoring (DAM) — Options B and D are correct. Encryption at rest protects data if storage is accessed. Database activity monitoring (DAM) detects and can block unauthorized queries. Option A is wrong because network segmentation alone does not prevent access if credentials are compromised. Option C is wrong because strong passwords are good but not sufficient. Option E is wrong because regular patching addresses vulnerabilities but not access control.
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related CISA NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
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Last reviewed: Jun 6, 2026
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