easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
ISC2 CC Practice Question: A company has implemented a policy where all…
A company has implemented a policy where all employees must use a smart card and PIN to access the data center. Which security principle does this practice support?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the concept that defense in depth is about multiple layers of security, not just multiple factors of authentication, but here the smart card and PIN specifically represent two distinct authentication factors, which is a clear example of a layered defense.
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
✓
Defense in depth
The use of both a smart card (something you have) and a PIN (something you know) creates a multi-factor authentication mechanism. This layered approach ensures that even if one factor is compromised, the other still provides protection, which is the core of the defense-in-depth principle. Defense in depth is about implementing multiple, overlapping security controls rather than relying on a single point of defense.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Keep it simple
Why it's wrong here
Simplicity is not the principle here.
- ✓
Defense in depth
Why this is correct
Correct. Multiple factors create depth.
- ✗
Least privilege
Why it's wrong here
Least privilege is about permissions, not authentication.
- ✗
Fail-safe
Why it's wrong here
Fail-safe is about system failure behavior.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
Defense in depth
Defense in depth is a cybersecurity strategy that uses multiple layers of security controls to protect information and systems, so if one layer fails, another layer is already in place to stop the attack.
Key term
Policy
A policy is a set of rules or guidelines that defines how an organization manages, secures, and operates its IT systems and services.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CC practice question is part of Courseiva's free ISC2 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 CC exam.