ISC2 CC Network Security Practice Question
During a penetration test, an analyst uses a tool to intercept and modify traffic between a client and server by exploiting the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP). This attack is an example of which type of threat?
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
✓
Man-in-the-middle (MITM)
ARP poisoning allows an attacker to intercept traffic on a local network, enabling man-in-the-middle attacks.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Spoofing
Why it's wrong here
Spoofing involves forging addresses, but the broader attack is MITM.
- ✗
Denial of Service (DoS)
Why it's wrong here
DoS aims to disrupt service, not intercept communications.
- ✗
Sniffing
Why it's wrong here
Sniffing is passive eavesdropping, not active modification.
- ✓
Man-in-the-middle (MITM)
Why this is correct
ARP poisoning enables MITM by redirecting traffic through the attacker.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Network Security Foundations
Key term
Threat
A threat is any potential danger that could harm a computer system, network, or data, whether from a malicious hacker, a natural disaster, or an accidental mistake.
Key term
Penetration test
A penetration test is a simulated cyberattack against a computer system, network, or application to identify security weaknesses that an attacker could exploit.
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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.