hardMultiple SelectObjective-mapped
ISC2 CC Practice Question: A security operations center (SOC) analyst is…
A security operations center (SOC) analyst is investigating a potential data exfiltration. Which two indicators are most likely signs of data exfiltration?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the distinction between indicators of compromise (IOCs) for different attack phases—candidates confuse C2 beaconing (DNS queries) with data exfiltration (large file transfers), or mistake authentication failures for exfiltration activity.
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
✓
Unexpected large file transfers via FTP
Unexpected large file transfers via FTP are a classic indicator of data exfiltration because FTP is a clear-text protocol often used to move bulk data out of a network. A sudden spike in outbound FTP traffic, especially to an unfamiliar external IP, suggests an attacker is compressing and uploading stolen files. This behavior directly matches the exfiltration phase of the Cyber Kill Chain.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Large number of failed login attempts
Why it's wrong here
Failed logins indicate brute force, not exfiltration.
- ✗
Frequent DNS queries to known malicious domains
Why it's wrong here
DNS queries may indicate C2 communication, not direct exfiltration.
- ✓
Unexpected large file transfers via FTP
Why this is correct
Large file transfers out of the network are a classic exfiltration sign.
- ✗
Multiple antivirus alerts
Why it's wrong here
Antivirus alerts indicate malware, not necessarily exfiltration.
- ✓
Unusual outbound traffic to a foreign IP
Why this is correct
Outbound traffic to unfamiliar IPs could indicate data being sent out.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
Security operations center
A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a centralized team and facility that monitors, detects, analyzes, and responds to cybersecurity incidents across an organization's IT environment 24/7.
Key term
SOC
A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a centralized team that monitors, detects, analyzes, and responds to cybersecurity incidents to protect an organization's information systems.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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