Quick Answer
The correct answer is DNS tunneling. This attack works by encoding malicious data or exfiltrated information within the subdomain fields of DNS queries, which are often allowed through firewalls without deep inspection. The encoded strings in the subdomains, combined with a high volume of outbound queries to a foreign IP, are the classic indicators of data exfiltration via DNS tunneling, as the protocol is trusted and rarely blocked. On the SSCP exam, this question tests your ability to recognize covert channel attacks that abuse legitimate protocols; a common trap is confusing this with a simple DNS amplification or cache poisoning attack. Remember that tunneling focuses on data extraction, not service disruption. Memory tip: think of DNS as a "digital mule" — it carries hidden cargo out of the network under the guise of normal traffic.
This SSCP practice question tests your understanding of security operations and administration. Examine the command output carefully: the correct answer depends on what the output actually shows, not on general recall alone. 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 security analyst is investigating a potential data exfiltration incident. The logs show a large number of outbound DNS queries to a domain that resolves to an IP address in a foreign country. The queries contain encoded strings in the subdomain. Which type of attack is MOST likely occurring?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "most likely"
Why it matters: Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
DNS poisoning
Why wrong: DNS poisoning involves corrupting cache, not exfiltration.
DNS amplification attack
Why wrong: This is a DDoS technique, not for data exfiltration.
DNS rebinding
Why wrong: This bypasses same-origin policy, not for data exfiltration.
DNS tunneling
DNS tunneling encodes data in DNS queries and responses for covert exfiltration.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
DNS tunneling
DNS tunneling encodes data within DNS queries and responses to bypass network security controls. The large volume of outbound queries to a foreign IP, combined with encoded subdomain strings, is the classic signature of data exfiltration via DNS tunneling, as the protocol is often allowed through firewalls.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
DNS poisoning
Why it's wrong here
DNS poisoning involves corrupting cache, not exfiltration.
DNS amplification attack
Why it's wrong here
This is a DDoS technique, not for data exfiltration.
DNS rebinding
Why it's wrong here
This bypasses same-origin policy, not for data exfiltration.
DNS tunneling
Why this is correct
DNS tunneling encodes data in DNS queries and responses for covert exfiltration.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "most likely" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates confuse DNS tunneling with DNS amplification because both involve high query volumes, but amplification focuses on response size and reflection, not on encoding data in subdomains for exfiltration.
Detailed technical explanation
DNS tunneling exploits the fact that DNS queries can include arbitrary subdomain labels (up to 255 bytes total). Tools like dnscat2 or Iodine encode data in Base32 or Base64 and place it in the subdomain portion of a query, which is then decoded by a malicious authoritative server. The attack often uses a high query rate to maximize throughput, and detection relies on analyzing query entropy, volume, or domain reputation.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A SOC analyst notices unusual lateral movement in the network at 2 AM. The IR playbook dictates: identify and contain (isolate the affected machine), then eradicate (remove the malware), then recover (restore from backup), then document. Skipping containment before eradication risks the attacker regaining access. Questions like this test the sequence and rationale of incident response phases.
What to study next
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FAQ
Security Operations and Administration — This question tests Security Operations and Administration — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: DNS tunneling — DNS tunneling encodes data within DNS queries and responses to bypass network security controls. The large volume of outbound queries to a foreign IP, combined with encoded subdomain strings, is the classic signature of data exfiltration via DNS tunneling, as the protocol is often allowed through firewalls.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Yes — watch for: "most likely". Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 25, 2026
This SSCP 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 SSCP exam.
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