ISC2 CC Security Principles Practice Question
A security analyst is designing a multi-factor authentication system for remote access. Which TWO of the following combinations represent true multi-factor authentication? (Select TWO)
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
✓
Fingerprint and password
Multi-factor requires at least two different types. A password (Type 1) and smart card (Type 2) are different factors. A fingerprint (Type 3) and password (Type 1) are also different factors.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Smart card and OTP token
Why it's wrong here
Both are Type 2 (possession), so not multi-factor.
- ✓
Fingerprint and password
Why this is correct
Correct. Fingerprint (Type 3) and password (Type 1) are different factors.
- ✓
Password and smart card
Why this is correct
Correct. Password (Type 1) and smart card (Type 2) are different factors.
- ✗
Fingerprint and retina scan
Why it's wrong here
Both are Type 3 (inherence), so not multi-factor.
- ✗
Password and PIN
Why it's wrong here
Both are Type 1 (knowledge), so it is not multi-factor.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
Time-based One-time Password
A temporary, automatically generated code that changes every few seconds and is used as an extra layer of security when logging into an account.
Key term
Authentication
Authentication is the process of verifying that someone or something is who or what it claims to be before granting access to a system or resource.
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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.