Test your cybersecurity knowledge: Take the ultimate quiz on cybersecurity terms

Cybercriminals are constantly developing new tactics to breach company IT systems. To stay one step ahead of cybercriminals, businesses must fortify their cyber defenses and keep abreast of the latest threats and security solutions.

Take this quiz to refresh your knowledge of key cybersecurity terms.

Question 1: Which cybersecurity strategy involves implementing multiple layers of security to mitigate risks and enhance overall protection?

A. Comprehensive security
B. Defense in depth
C. Unified defense

Correct answer: B. Defense in Depth

Defense in Depth (DiD) is a cybersecurity strategy that involves layering multiple security controls throughout an organization’s IT environment. Each layer of security provides a different way to protect assets so that if one layer is breached, there are other layers that can stop the attack. For example, a firewall can block unauthorized access to a network, while an managed detection and response system can identify alert, and block malicious actions. Encryption can protect sensitive data, and access controls can restrict who has access to what resources.

By using a multilayered approach, DiD creates a robust and comprehensive security posture that provides redundancy and improves resilience against a wide range of cyberthreats.

Question 2: Which cybersecurity model emphasizes verifying user identities before granting access to company applications and data?

A. Perimeter security
B. Zero trust security
C. Faith-based security

Correct answer: B. Zero trust security

Zero trust follows the principle “never trust, always verify.” This means that no user or device is trusted by default, even if it’s within the corporate network. Instead, users are granted access to only the applications and data they need to do their work, and their identities are continuously verified. This approach helps to protect organizations from a wide range of cyberattacks, including lateral movement and data exfiltration.

Question 3: Which authentication service permits users to access multiple applications and/or systems with one set of credentials?

A. Universal access key
B. Single sign-on
C. Multifactor authentication

Correct answer: B. Single sign-on

With single sign-on (SSO), users won’t need to remember multiple usernames and passwords, minimizing security risks while increasing efficiency. SSO solutions typically work by redirecting users to a central authentication server when they attempt to access a protected resource. The authentication server then validates the user’s credentials and grants access to the resource if the credentials are valid.

Question 4: Which type of cyberattack floods a target system with an overwhelming volume of traffic to render the system unavailable?

A. Phishing
B. Distributed denial-of-service
C. Ransomware

Correct answer: B. Distributed denial-of-service

A distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack involves flooding the targeted server, service, or network with traffic from multiple sources. Unlike a denial-of-service attack, which is launched from a single source, a DDoS attack can involve hundreds or thousands of sources. These sources are often compromised devices controlled by cybercriminals.

The DDoS attack’s overwhelming traffic volume makes it impossible for the target to handle legitimate user requests. This can result in service degradation or unavailability, which can have a significant impact on the target’s business operations.

Question 5: Which type of cyberattack involves encrypting a victim’s data and asking for money in exchange for the data’s release?

A. Brute force attack
B. Ransomware
C. Phishing

Correct answer: B. Ransomware

Ransomware involves encrypting a victim’s files or entire system, making these inaccessible. The cybercriminal then demands a ransom in exchange for the decryption key that can restore access. Ransomware attacks can cause significant damage, including lost productivity, corrupted data, and costly recovery efforts.

Question 6: Which authentication method eliminates the need for traditional passwords in favor of other verification methods?

A. Passphrase
B. Two-factor authentication
C. Passwordless authentication

Correct answer: C. Passwordless authentication

Instead of using traditional passwords, passwordless solutions authenticate users using biometric identifiers (e.g., fingerprints, facial recognition), hardware tokens, mobile apps, or other factors. This minimizes the risk of password-related vulnerabilities, such as weak passwords and password reuse, and password-related cyberattacks, such as phishing and brute force attacks.

Question 7: Which of the following terms describes a sequence of words or characters used as a secure alternative to passwords?

A. One-time PIN
B. Passphrase
C. Smart card

Correct answer: B. Passphrase

A passphrase is a string of multiple words that is typically longer than a password. This makes a passphrase harder for cybercriminals to guess, but easier for users to remember. Here’s an example of a passphrase: “BlueGiraffesFlyingOverClouds.”

How did you do?
5–7 correct answers: You have a strong understanding of cybersecurity lingo. Congratulations!
3–4 correct answers: You have a basic understanding of cybersecurity lingo. Keep learning!
0–2 correct answer/s: You need to learn more about cybersecurity lingo. There are many online resources you can learn from, such as Interplay’s blog.

Want to improve your company’s security posture? Take Interplay’s FREE Network & IT Health Self-Assessment. After uncovering weaknesses or vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure and processes, we can work with you to develop and strengthen your company’s cyber defenses.