- A
Masking
Why wrong: Masking partially obscures data but is reversible if the masking pattern is known.
- B
Date shifting
Why wrong: Date shifting modifies dates, not SSNs.
- C
Tokenization
Tokenization replaces SSNs with tokens that cannot be reversed to the original.
- D
Pseudonymization
Why wrong: Pseudonymization replaces identifiers with pseudonyms, but may be reversible.
Question 352 of 1,000
CCSP Cloud Data Security Practice Question
This CCSP practice question tests your understanding of cloud data security. 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.
An organization uses a cloud DLP API to scan data in Cloud Storage and BigQuery for sensitive information. They need to replace social security numbers (SSNs) with a non-reversible token that can be used for consistent mapping without exposing the original SSN. Which de-identification technique should they use?
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
✓
Tokenization
Tokenization replaces sensitive data with a unique, non-reversible token that maintains referential integrity. Unlike masking, it completely replaces the original value.
Key principle: Count usable hosts — not total addresses — and remember that the network and broadcast addresses are not available to hosts in standard IPv4 subnets.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Masking
Why it's wrong here
Masking partially obscures data but is reversible if the masking pattern is known.
- ✗
Date shifting
Why it's wrong here
Date shifting modifies dates, not SSNs.
- ✓
Tokenization
Why this is correct
Tokenization replaces SSNs with tokens that cannot be reversed to the original.
Related concept
CIDR notation defines the prefix length.
- ✗
Pseudonymization
Why it's wrong here
Pseudonymization replaces identifiers with pseudonyms, but may be reversible.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: usable hosts are not the same as total addresses
Subnetting questions often tempt you into counting all addresses. In normal IPv4 subnets, the network and broadcast addresses are not usable host addresses.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Subnetting questions test whether you can identify the network, broadcast address, usable range, mask and correct subnet. Slow down enough to calculate the block size correctly.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- CIDR notation defines the prefix length.
- Block size helps identify subnet boundaries.
- Network and broadcast addresses are not usable hosts in normal IPv4 subnets.
- The required host count determines the smallest suitable subnet.
TExam Day Tips
- Write the block size before choosing the subnet.
- Check whether the question asks for hosts, subnets or a specific address range.
- Do not confuse /24, /25, /26 and /27 host counts.
Key takeaway
Count usable hosts — not total addresses — and remember that the network and broadcast addresses are not available to hosts in standard IPv4 subnets.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A security team runs a vulnerability scan on a web application and discovers an unpatched SQL injection flaw. The team prioritises remediation by CVSS score — critical flaws are patched within 24 hours, high within 7 days. Questions like this test whether you understand vulnerability management processes, scanning tools, and remediation prioritisation.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review block sizes, usable host formulas (2^n − 2), and how to find network and broadcast addresses for /24 through /30. Then practise related CCSP subnetting questions on CIDR, address ranges, and subnet selection.
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this CCSP question test?
Cloud Data Security — This question tests Cloud Data Security — CIDR notation defines the prefix length..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Tokenization — Tokenization replaces sensitive data with a unique, non-reversible token that maintains referential integrity. Unlike masking, it completely replaces the original value.
What should I do if I get this CCSP question wrong?
Review block sizes, usable host formulas (2^n − 2), and how to find network and broadcast addresses for /24 through /30. Then practise related CCSP subnetting questions on CIDR, address ranges, and subnet selection.
What is the key concept behind this question?
CIDR notation defines the prefix length.
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Last reviewed: Jul 4, 2026
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.
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