SSCP Security Operations and Administration Practice Question
Which of the following physical security controls is designed to prevent tailgating by requiring two doors to be interlocked?
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often mistake a mantrap for a simple turnstile or revolving door, but the defining characteristic of a mantrap is the interlocking mechanism that prevents both doors from opening simultaneously, ensuring only one authenticated person passes at a time.
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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Mantrap
A mantrap is a physical security control consisting of two interlocking doors that create a small vestibule. Only one door can be opened at a time, preventing an unauthorized person from following an authorized person through a single entry point (tailgating). This design forces each individual to be authenticated before the second door unlocks, ensuring only one person passes per authentication event.
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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Security guard
Why it's wrong here
A guard monitors and challenges people at an entrance but does not physically interlock two doors, so a single authorised entry can still be followed through. Guards suit sites needing human judgement, visitor screening or response to incidents, not the mechanical two-door interlock this scenario demands.
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Biometric reader
Why it's wrong here
A biometric reader authenticates one person at a single door; it does not interlock two doors, so an authenticated user can still be tailgated through the open doorway. Biometrics suit strong identity verification at an access point, not the paired-door interlock this scenario requires.
- ✓
Mantrap
Why this is correct
A mantrap interposes two interlocked doors so only one opens at a time, holding each person alone in the vestibule before the second door releases. This directly satisfies the requirement to prevent tailgating, since a follower cannot pass through while the first door remains secured.
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CCTV
Why it's wrong here
CCTV records and deters but cannot stop a second person following an authorised entry through a doorway; it provides evidence after the event. Cameras are the right choice where monitoring, investigation or remote surveillance of an area is required, not where entry must be physically constrained.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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