hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
ISC2 CC Practice Question: A security analyst receives an alert from the…
A security analyst receives an alert from the SIEM indicating a potential data exfiltration event. The alert shows a large volume of data being transferred to an external IP address during non-business hours. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action?
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
✓
Verify whether the transfer is authorized.
The most appropriate immediate action when a SIEM alert indicates potential data exfiltration is to first verify whether the transfer is authorized (Option A). This prevents unnecessary disruption of critical services and avoids false positives. Option B (calling the employee) is premature and may alert a malicious insider prematurely. Option C (disconnecting the server) could cause business impact and should only be done after confirmation of unauthorized activity. Option D (running an antivirus scan) does not address the exfiltration event and is not the first step in incident response.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Verify whether the transfer is authorized.
Why this is correct
Verification ensures that action is based on confirmed facts.
- ✗
Call the employee who owns the server.
Why it's wrong here
Calling may not be efficient and could alert a potential insider.
- ✗
Disconnect the affected server from the network.
Why it's wrong here
Disconnecting without verification could impact legitimate operations.
- ✗
Run an antivirus scan on the server.
Why it's wrong here
Antivirus is not effective for detecting data exfiltration.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
Alert
An alert is a notification that something unusual or potentially harmful has happened in a computer system or network.
Key term
Incident
An incident is a security event that violates an organization's policies or threatens its data, systems, or operations, requiring a structured response.
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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.