CCSP Cloud Application Security Practice Question
Which of the following is a key benefit of using a software composition analysis (SCA) tool in a cloud application security program?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the distinction between SCA (open-source dependency scanning) and SAST (proprietary code scanning), so the trap here is confusing which tool analyzes which type of code, leading candidates to incorrectly select option D.
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
✓
Detects known vulnerabilities in open-source libraries
SCA tools automate the identification of open-source components within a codebase and cross-reference them against databases like the National Vulnerability Database (NVD) to detect known vulnerabilities (CVEs). This is a key benefit because cloud applications often heavily rely on open-source libraries, and SCA provides a scalable way to manage that risk without manual auditing.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Detects known vulnerabilities in open-source libraries
Why this is correct
SCA specifically identifies vulnerabilities in third-party components.
- ✗
Enforces runtime policies
Why it's wrong here
Runtime policies are enforced by tools like RASP.
- ✗
Simulates attacks on running applications
Why it's wrong here
Attack simulation is typically done by DAST or penetration testing.
- ✗
Identifies vulnerabilities in proprietary code
Why it's wrong here
Proprietary code vulnerabilities are found by SAST.
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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.