(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What is a security token?

1. A method for encrypting sensitive data.

2. A tool for analyzing network traffic.

3. A physical or digital device used to authenticate a user's identity.

4. An application for managing passwords.

The correct answer is: A physical or digital device used to authenticate a user's identity.

A security token refers to a physical or digital device utilized to authenticate a user's identity, which can include hardware tokens, smart cards, or software-based tokens like those generated by apps on smartphones. These tokens work by generating a one-time password or a cryptographic key that the user must provide, often within a specific time frame, to access a system or service. This process enhances security by ensuring that only users who possess the token can gain access, thus adding an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access. In the context of cybersecurity, the use of security tokens is crucial for implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), which combines something the user knows (like a password) with something the user has (the security token). This method significantly reduces the risk of account compromise, even if a password is exposed. Other options refer to different security measures and tools: encrypting sensitive data pertains to data confidentiality, analyzing network traffic relates to monitoring for suspicious activity, and managing passwords involves systems and practices for creating, storing, and retrieving user passwords effectively. Each serves a vital role in cybersecurity, but they do not specifically define what a security token is.