SSCP Access Controls Practice Question
An organization requires users to authenticate using a password and a one-time code from a mobile app. Which authentication method is being used?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap is conflating TOTP with hardware tokens — both generate one-time codes, but TOTP is software-based (mobile app) while hardware tokens are dedicated physical devices, and the exam expects you to key on the 'mobile app' detail.
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
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Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP)
A password combined with a one-time code generated by a mobile app is the textbook definition of Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP), where the code is derived from a shared secret and the current time (typically 30-second windows, per RFC 6238). This is a form of multi-factor authentication combining something you know (password) with something you have (the app/device).
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP)
Why this is correct
TOTP generates a code from a shared secret and the current time, so the mobile app produces a fresh one-time code every 30 seconds. Combined with the password, this delivers the two distinct factors the stem requires, satisfying the multi-factor authentication constraint.
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Smart card
Why it's wrong here
A smart card supplies a stored certificate or cryptographic credential read by a contact reader, not a one-time code generated by a mobile app. It is tempting because smart cards do deliver possession-factor authentication, and would be correct where the second factor is a physical card plus PIN rather than an app-generated code.
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Hardware token
Why it's wrong here
A hardware token is a separate physical device generating or displaying codes, not software running on the user's mobile phone. It is tempting because hardware tokens do produce one-time codes, and would be correct where the organisation issues dedicated key fobs rather than relying on an app installed on a smartphone.
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Biometrics
Why it's wrong here
Biometrics verifies a fingerprint, face or iris trait, so it cannot produce the one-time code the mobile app generates. It is tempting because biometrics is a genuine authentication factor, and would be correct where the second factor is an inherent physical characteristic rather than a software-generated code.
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official ISC2 exam blueprint
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.