Crack the Cybersecurity Interview – 20 Most Common Questions

Cybersecurity Questions

Computer security focuses on protecting computer systems and their data from theft, damage, and unauthorized access. It involves a combination of hardware, software, and procedural safeguards.

As technology advances, ensuring computer security is vital for both individuals and organizations to mitigate risks and protect sensitive data.

1. Which of the following is NOT a type of malware?

A. Virus
B. Worm
C. Firewall
D. Trojan

Answer: C. Firewall

Explanation: A firewall is a security system used to monitor and control network traffic. The others are types of malicious software.

2. What does “phishing” aim to do?

A. Destroy data
B. Steal sensitive information
C. Encrypt files for ransom
D. Monitor network traffic

Answer: B. Steal sensitive information

Explanation: Phishing is a technique where attackers trick users into providing sensitive data, such as passwords or credit card information, often through fake websites or emails.

3. What is the primary purpose of a firewall?

A. Encrypt data
B. Detect intrusions
C. Control network traffic
D. Create backups

Answer: C. Control network traffic

Explanation: Firewalls act as a barrier to control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules.

4. What does “two-factor authentication” (2FA) add to security?

A. Longer passwords
B. A second layer of verification
C. A backup of credentials
D. Biometric recognition

Answer: B. A second layer of verification

Explanation: 2FA requires a user to verify their identity using two methods, such as a password and a code sent to their phone.

5. What is the term for the process of encoding data to protect it from unauthorized access?

A. Hacking
B. Encryption
C. Decryption
D. Firewalling

Answer: B. Encryption

Explanation: Encryption secures data by converting it into an unreadable format, only accessible with the correct decryption key.

6. Which attack floods a network or server with excessive traffic?

A. Phishing
B. Ransomware
C. Denial-of-Service (DoS)
D. Spoofing

Answer: C. Denial-of-Service (DoS)

Explanation: A DoS attack overwhelms the target with traffic, rendering it unable to respond to legitimate requests.

7. What is a “zero-day vulnerability”?

A. An outdated software flaw
B. A discovered but unpatched security flaw
C. A fully patched software system
D. An attack that encrypts data

Answer: B. A discovered but unpatched security flaw

Explanation: Zero-day vulnerabilities are exploited by attackers before developers release a fix.

8. Which of the following best describes a “man-in-the-middle” attack?

A. Altering data during transmission
B. Sending unsolicited emails
C. Denying service to legitimate users
D. Installing spyware remotely

Answer: A. Altering data during transmission

Explanation: In a man-in-the-middle attack, the attacker intercepts and possibly alters communication between two parties.

9. What does VPN stand for?

A. Virtual Private Network
B. Virtual Personal Network
C. Verified Protected Network
D. Virtual Protected Node

Answer: A. Virtual Private Network

Explanation: A VPN encrypts internet connections, providing a secure tunnel between devices.

10. What is the primary goal of ransomware?

A. Monitor user activities
B. Steal passwords
C. Encrypt files for ransom
D. Delete system files

Answer: C. Encrypt files for ransom

Explanation: Ransomware encrypts a victim’s data and demands payment for the decryption key.

11. Which of these is an example of biometric authentication?

A. PIN
B. Password
C. Fingerprint scan
D. Security question

Answer: C. Fingerprint scan

Explanation: Biometrics use unique physical characteristics, like fingerprints or facial recognition, for authentication.

12. What does HTTPS indicate on a website?

A. The website is a government site
B. The site is secure and uses encryption
C. The website is hosted on a private server
D. The site is safe from all attacks

Answer: B. The site is secure and uses encryption

Explanation: HTTPS encrypts data between the user’s browser and the website, enhancing security.

13. Which type of malware disguises itself as legitimate software?

A. Virus
B. Worm
C. Trojan
D. Spyware

Answer: C. Trojan

Explanation: Trojans trick users into downloading malicious software by pretending to be legitimate.

14. What is the term for unauthorized access to computer systems or networks?

A. Phishing
B. Spoofing
C. Hacking
D. Encryption

Answer: C. Hacking

Explanation: Hacking involves gaining unauthorized access to systems or data.

15. Which of these is NOT a strong password practice?

A. Using a mix of characters
B. Avoiding dictionary words
C. Keeping the same password for multiple accounts
D. Regularly updating passwords

Answer: C. Keeping the same password for multiple accounts

Explanation: Reusing passwords across accounts increases the risk of compromise.

16. Which security concept ensures that data is not altered in transit?

A. Confidentiality
B. Integrity
C. Availability
D. Authentication

Answer: B. Integrity

Explanation: Integrity ensures that data remains accurate and unaltered during transmission.

17. What is the primary function of an antivirus program?

A. Backing up data
B. Detecting and removing malicious software
C. Encrypting sensitive information
D. Monitoring network activity

Answer: B. Detecting and removing malicious software

Explanation: Antivirus programs scan systems for malware and remove threats.

18. What type of attack involves tricking users into revealing personal information?

A. Spoofing
B. Phishing
C. Sniffing
D. Botnet

Answer: B. Phishing

Explanation: Phishing attacks use deceptive techniques, often emails, to obtain personal information.

19. Which is a common sign of a compromised system?

A. Unusually fast performance
B. Unexpected pop-ups or ads
C. Reduced internet usage
D. Automatically closed applications

Answer: B. Unexpected pop-ups or ads

Explanation: Pop-ups and unusual ads are common indicators of malware infection.

20. What is the purpose of a security patch?

A. Improve software aesthetics
B. Enhance software functionality
C. Fix vulnerabilities in software
D. Increase the speed of applications

Answer: C. Fix vulnerabilities in software

Explanation: Security patches address and fix known vulnerabilities in software to prevent exploitation.

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