easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
ISC2 CC Practice Question: The exhibit shows recent authentication logs
Exhibit
Refer to the exhibit. ``` Mar 15 08:45:23 server sshd[1234]: Failed password for admin from 192.168.1.100 port 22 Mar 15 08:45:26 server sshd[1234]: Failed password for admin from 192.168.1.100 port 22 Mar 15 08:45:29 server sshd[1234]: Failed password for admin from 192.168.1.100 port 22 Mar 15 08:45:32 server sshd[1234]: Accepted password for admin from 192.168.1.100 port 22 ```
The exhibit shows recent authentication logs. What type of attack is most likely indicated?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the distinction between brute-force and dictionary attacks; the trap here is that candidates may confuse repeated login attempts with a phishing attack, but phishing requires user interaction (e.g., clicking a link), whereas brute-force is automated against the authentication service.
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
✓
Brute-force attack
The exhibit shows repeated authentication attempts with different passwords for the same username, which is the hallmark of a brute-force attack. In authentication logs, a high frequency of failed login attempts (e.g., multiple 'Failed password' entries in quick succession) indicates an attacker systematically guessing credentials. This aligns with the CC domain of Access Controls, where brute-force attacks target weak password policies.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Man-in-the-middle attack
Why it's wrong here
No evidence of interception.
- ✓
Brute-force attack
Why this is correct
Rapid failed logins then success suggests password guessing.
- ✗
Phishing attack
Why it's wrong here
Phishing does not produce SSH failures.
- ✗
Privilege escalation
Why it's wrong here
Log shows authentication, not privilege change.
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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.