The answer is to move the database to a separate server and apply encryption, as this directly addresses the core vulnerability of physical access. By isolating the database on its own server, you remove the single point of failure where a web application compromise could lead directly to the database, while encryption ensures that even if an attacker gains physical control of the server’s hard drives, the copied data remains unreadable without the decryption key. On the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity CC exam, this scenario tests your understanding of defense-in-depth principles, specifically that physical security controls (like locks) are only the first layer, and that encryption is the last line of defense when physical access is breached. A common trap is choosing CCTV or strong access control lists (ACLs), but remember that CCTV is only detective, not preventive, and ACLs are useless once someone has physical hands on the server. Memory tip: “Separate and encrypt—if they touch it, they can’t read it.”
ISC2 CC Security Principles Practice Question
This CC practice question tests your understanding of security principles. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A small financial firm has a single server that hosts a critical database and also runs a web application. The server is located in a closet with a simple lock. An intern accidentally left the closet door open, and an unauthorized person gained physical access, connected a laptop to the server, and copied the database. The company wants to prevent such incidents in the future. Which of the following is the most effective course of action?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Move the database to a separate server and apply encryption.
Moving the database to a separate server and encrypting it reduces the risk of data theft from physical access. CCTV is detective, 2FA protects remote access, and strong ACLs can be bypassed with physical control of the server.
Key principle: ACLs process entries top to bottom and stop at the first match. Entry order and interface direction matter as much as the permit or deny statement.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Require two-factor authentication for database access.
Why it's wrong here
2FA protects remote access but not physical access to the server.
✓
Move the database to a separate server and apply encryption.
Why this is correct
Separating the database and encrypting it reduces the risk of data theft from physical access.
Related concept
Standard ACLs match source addresses.
✗
Implement strong access controls on the database files.
Why it's wrong here
Strong ACLs can be bypassed if the attacker has physical control of the server.
✗
Install a CCTV camera in the server closet.
Why it's wrong here
CCTV is a detective control, does not prevent physical access.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: ACLs stop at the first match
ACLs are processed top to bottom. The first matching entry wins, and an implicit deny usually exists at the end.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
ACL questions test precision: source, destination, protocol, port and direction. A generally correct ACL can still fail if it is applied on the wrong interface or in the wrong direction.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Standard ACLs match source addresses.
Extended ACLs can match source, destination, protocol and ports.
The first matching ACL entry is used.
There is usually an implicit deny at the end.
TExam Day Tips
→Check inbound versus outbound direction.
→Read the ACL from top to bottom.
→Look for a broader permit or deny above the intended line.
Key takeaway
ACLs process entries top to bottom and stop at the first match. Entry order and interface direction matter as much as the permit or deny statement.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A developer is choosing between AES-256 (symmetric) and RSA-2048 (asymmetric) for encrypting a large file that will be sent to a partner. Symmetric encryption is fast but requires key exchange; asymmetric is slower but solves the key distribution problem. A hybrid approach — encrypt the file with AES, encrypt the AES key with RSA — is standard. Questions like this test whether you understand when each approach applies.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this CC question in full detail.
Review ACL processing order, placement rules (standard near destination, extended near source), and inbound vs outbound direction. Study wildcard masks and implicit deny. Then practise related CC ACL questions on filtering logic and placement.
Security Principles — This question tests Security Principles — Standard ACLs match source addresses..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Move the database to a separate server and apply encryption. — Moving the database to a separate server and encrypting it reduces the risk of data theft from physical access. CCTV is detective, 2FA protects remote access, and strong ACLs can be bypassed with physical control of the server.
What should I do if I get this CC question wrong?
Review ACL processing order, placement rules (standard near destination, extended near source), and inbound vs outbound direction. Study wildcard masks and implicit deny. Then practise related CC ACL questions on filtering logic and placement.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Standard ACLs match source addresses.
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Question Discussion
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