hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CCSP Practice Question: An enterprise uses a Cloud Access Security Broker…
An enterprise uses a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) to monitor cloud application usage. The CASB generates alerts about potential data loss prevention events. What is the primary purpose of the CASB's DLP capabilities?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the misconception that DLP's primary purpose is to block all sensitive data or to classify data, when in fact it is to enforce granular policies that detect and prevent unauthorized sharing based on context (e.g., user, location, device).
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
✓
To detect and prevent unauthorized sharing of sensitive data based on policies
The primary purpose of a CASB's DLP capabilities is to enforce policies that detect and prevent unauthorized sharing of sensitive data. This is achieved by inspecting content in transit (e.g., via API or proxy) and applying rules such as blocking, quarantining, or alerting on policy violations. Option C correctly captures this core function of policy-based detection and prevention, which goes beyond simple blocking or classification.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
To block all uploads of sensitive data to cloud apps
Why it's wrong here
Blocking all uploads would hinder business operations; policies are more nuanced.
- ✗
To classify data automatically using machine learning
Why it's wrong here
Classification is a part of DLP but not its primary purpose; DLP focuses on enforcement.
- ✓
To detect and prevent unauthorized sharing of sensitive data based on policies
Why this is correct
DLP policies allow controlled sharing while blocking unauthorized transfers.
- ✗
To encrypt data before it is sent to cloud apps
Why it's wrong here
Encryption is typically performed by client-side or server-side encryption, not CASB.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CCSP 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 CCSP exam.