Top 100 Cybersecurity Interview Questions and Answers By Craw Security

Cybersecurity Interview Questions and Answers

1: What is cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity can be defined as the process of guarding computer systems, networks, devices, and data from theft, illegal access, harm, and other cyber threats.  This includes a variety of controls and innovations intended to protect data and guarantee the privacy, reliability, and accessibility of digital resources.

2: What are the main goals of cybersecurity?

The main goals of cybersecurity are as follows:

• Confidentiality,
• Integrity,
• Availability,
• Authentication,
• Authorization,
• Accountability,
• Resilience,
• Awareness and Training, etc.

3: What is the CIA triad in cybersecurity?

The CIA triad is a fundamental concept in cybersecurity that stands for Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability.  It stands for the three primary goals that must be safeguarded and upheld in any security system or setting.  In order to guarantee the general security and efficiency of systems, the CIA triad aids in directing the use of security measures and the evaluation of threats.

4: What is the difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption?

Two distinct cryptographic methods are employed to safeguard data and communication: symmetric encryption and asymmetric encryption.  Their primary distinction is in how keys for decryption and encryption are utilized and distributed.

• Symmetric Encryption:

The same key is utilized in symmetric encryption for both encryption and decryption.  The person who sends the message and the recipient beforehand communicate through a secure channel to exchange the key.  The key is kept private and shouldn’t be available to uninvited guests.  Symmetric encryption is useful for encrypting huge volumes of data since the encryption and decryption processes are quick and effective.

• Asymmetric Encryption:

A public key and a private key are used in asymmetric encryption, commonly referred to as public-key encryption.  Whereas the private key is kept private and only accessible to the key owner, the public key is extensively used and can be freely circulated.  Without a common secret key, asymmetric encryption offers a safe means to transmit encrypted messages.

5: What is a firewall and how does it work?

An internal network, like a corporate network, and an external network, like the Internet, are separated by a firewall, a network security device, or a piece of software.  It is intended to watch over and manage incoming and outgoing network traffic in accordance with predefined security policies.

In addition to this, the firewall operates in the following manner:

1. Packet Filtering,
2. Access Control,
3. Stateful Inspection,
4. Network Address Translation (NAT),
5. Logging and Auditing, etc.

6: Explain the concept of “defense in depth.”

A security tactic known as “defense in depth” is putting in place numerous levels of defense controls and precautions to safeguard computer systems, networks, and data.  The idea acknowledges that relying solely on one security solution will not be sufficient to offer complete defense against complex and constantly changing cyber threats.  Instead, it promotes the use of layered defenses, each of which adds a layer of protection for a stronger, more durable overall defense.

7: What is a vulnerability assessment?

Vulnerabilities or flaws in computer systems, networks, apps, or other IT infrastructure are identified and evaluated systematically through a vulnerability assessment.  It seeks to proactively find security holes that a cyber intruder could use to undermine the system’s privacy, reliability, or accessibility.

8: What is the difference between a vulnerability and an exploit?

In the context of cybersecurity, a vulnerability, and an exploit are related but distinct concepts:

• Vulnerability:

Any weakness or flaw that might be used by a cyber intruder to obtain illicit access, interrupt activities, or jeopardize the reliability, privacy, or accessibility of information is referred to as a vulnerability.  Architectural faults, coding mistakes, incorrect setups, or out-of-date software versions can all lead to vulnerabilities. They offer potential avenues of entry that attackers could use to breach a system’s security.

• Exploit:

A particular approach or piece of code known as an exploit, on the contrary, uses a vulnerability to launch an attack or obtain illegal entry into a system or network.  Attackers create or find exploits, which may be employed to take advantage of a vulnerability for nefarious objectives.

Exploits are frequently made to target certain shortcomings, utilizing the flaws in a system or program to get around security measures, issue illegal commands, or acquire privileged access.  Malware, code scripts, and other harmful payloads are all examples of exploits.

9: What is a security policy?

An organization’s management and protection of its information assets, systems, networks, and resources are outlined in its security policy, which is a defined set of rules, standards, and procedures.  It acts as a foundational document that outlines the organization’s security goals, requirements, accountability, and permissible conduct with regard to data security.

10: What is a DDoS attack and how does it work?

A malevolent effort to stop a network, service, or website from being available and functional by flooding it with unauthorized traffic is known as a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack. In a DDoS assault, a number of hacked computers or devices — known as botnets — work together to send a tremendous amount of traffic to the target, overwhelming it and making it unable to respond to genuine user requests.

Moreover, a typical DDoS attack operates as follows:

• Botnet Creation,
• Command and Control (C&C),
• Attack Initiation,
• Traffic Overload,
• Attack Duration, etc.

11: Explain the concept of least privilege.

According to the principle of least privilege (PoLP), commonly referred to as the concept of least privilege, users and systems should only be given the minimal amount of access required to carry out their approved activities.  This adheres to the principle of avoiding unneeded access to vital assets or capabilities while limiting rights and permissions to the absolute minimum necessary to perform particular duties or responsibilities.

The idea behind the least privilege concept is that giving users or systems too many powers raises the possibility of an attack, as well as the danger of illicit entry, abuse, or inadvertent damage.  Businesses can lessen the effects of security breaches and reduce the likelihood of hostile activity by following the principle.

12: What is social engineering and what are some common types?

In order to trick individuals or groups into disclosing confidential data, carrying out certain tasks, or allowing unlawful access, social engineering uses psychological and manipulative tactics.  It preys on human psychology and uses manipulation to persuade victims into doing things that are advantageous to the attacker by taking advantage of confidence, power, curiosity, or other psychological attributes.

Social engineering attacks come in many different shapes, but some typical ones are Phishing, Pretexting, Baiting, Quid pro quo, Tailgating, Impersonation, Reverse Social Engineering, etc.

13: What is the difference between authentication and authorization?

Authentication and authorization are two distinct but interconnected concepts in the field of information security:

• Authentication:

Checking a user, system, or entity’s identification in order to be confident they are who they say they are is called authentication.  It includes verifying the validity of the user or entity’s credentials and figuring out if they are authorized to utilize a given resource or carry out a specific task.  Establishing confidence and trust in the identification of the party requesting access is the aim of authentication.

• Authorization:

Getting a person or entity’s permission to utilize or gain access to certain resources, actions, or services is the process of authorization.  In this regard, it involves developing and executing access control rules based on the identity, function, or other characteristics of the user.  A system’s authorization process makes sure users have the right rights and privileges to carry out particular actions or access particular resources.

14: What is the OWASP Top 10 and why is it important?

The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) has compiled an inventory of the 10 most important web application security threats, which are revised frequently.  Developers, security experts, and businesses can use it as a reference to comprehend and rank common vulnerabilities that could jeopardize the security of web applications.  For example, Injection, Broken Authentication, Sensitive Data Exposure, XML External Entities (XXE), etc.

The OWASP Top 10 is a useful tool to encourage secure online application development best practices and increase public knowledge of common security concerns.  This enables enterprises to concentrate their efforts on fixing the most critical vulnerabilities that attackers frequently take advantage of.

15: What is a zero-day vulnerability?

A cyber security flaw or bug in hardware, software, or a system revealed only to the vendor, or researchers is referred to as a zero-day vulnerability.  As a result of the developers’ or suppliers’ limited time to fix the flaw before it can be leveraged by attackers, it is known as a “zero-day” vulnerability.  In essence, it indicates that attackers are actively exploiting the vulnerability while the manufacturer or developers are uninformed of it.

16: What is a botnet?

A distributed system of hacked computers or other devices that is managed by a hostile actor or “botmaster” is known as a botnet.  These hijacked computers, often known as “bots” or “zombies,” frequently get infected with malware that enables the botmaster to manage them without the owner’s authorization or knowledge remotely.

By infiltrating a great number of computers or devices using a variety of techniques, such as abusing security flaws, disseminating email attachments that are malicious, or luring people to click on harmful links, botnets can be built.  When compromised devices are infected, they join the botnet and can be utilized for a variety of harmful purposes.

17: How does public key infrastructure (PKI) work?

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a framework that enables secure communication and authentication in a networked environment.  In a networked environment, secure communication and authentication are made possible via the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) framework.  To manage digital certificates, public and private key pairs, and the related cryptographic procedures, it offers a collection of policies, methods, and technologies.  The basis of PKI is the implementation of asymmetric encryption techniques, which combine a public key and a private key that are mathematically related.

Moreover, below-mentioned is a simplified overview of how PKI works:

• Key Pair Generation,
• Certificate Authority (CA),
• Certificate Enrollment,
• Certificate Issuance,
• Certificate Distribution,
• Certificate Validation,
• Secure Communication,
• Certificate Revocation, etc.

18: What is the role of a security incident response team?

Identification, response, and management of security-related incidents inside a business are the responsibilities of a Security Incident Response Team (SIRT), often referred to as an Incident Response Team (IRT).  In the case of an attack on security, SIRTs are essential for reducing the effects of security breaches, reducing risks, and returning things to normal.  Their chief duties are as follows:

• Incident Detection and Monitoring,
• Incident Response Planning,
• Incident Triage and Investigation,
• Containment and Eradication,
• Forensics and Evidence Preservation,
• Communication and Reporting,
• Lessons Learned and Continuous Improvement, etc.

19: Explain the concept of encryption.

By applying algorithms for encryption and keys, plaintext (data that can be read and understood) is transformed into ciphertext (data that has been encoded and is not understandable).  It is a basic method for preserving the reliability and privacy of data while it is being sent or stored.  Encryption makes sure that even if unapproved individuals access the encrypted material, they will be unable to decrypt it and read its contents.

20: What is the difference between a vulnerability scan and a penetration test?

In a nutshell, penetration testing simulates actual attacks to find vulnerabilities and evaluate a company’s safety defenses; vulnerability scanning is a methodical technique for identifying known weaknesses.  Both methods are useful for different things and work best when combined to give a complete picture of a company’s security posture.  Although penetration testing assists in evaluating the efficiency of security controls and identifying potential holes that may not be obvious through automated scanning alone, vulnerability scanning is an anticipatory strategy for finding and fixing vulnerabilities.

21: What is a hash function, and what is it used for in cybersecurity?

Defined as the “hash value” or “digest,” a hash function is a mathematical operation that accepts as input a fixed-length string of letters referred to as the “message” or “data,” and outputs the result as the “hash value” or “digest.”  The hash value, which is the output, is specific to the input data. Therefore, even a minor alteration will result in a drastically distinct hash value.  Hash functions are made to handle information quickly, even for massive inputs, because of their speed and efficiency.

In cybersecurity, hash functions are widely used for various purposes:

• Data Integrity Verification,

• Password Storage,

• Digital Signatures,

• Data Deduplication,

• Forensics and File Identification, etc.

22: How does SSL/TLS work?

Safe connections over a network, which is usually the internet, are established using the cryptographic protocols SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and its successor TLS (Transport Layer Security).  The SSL/TLS standards protect the privacy, reliability, and integrity of data transferred between a client (like a web browser) and a server (like a web server).

In addition, the following is a brief description of how SSL/TLS functions:

• Handshake Protocol
  • Client Hello
  • Server Hello
  • Certificate Exchange
  • Key Exchange
  • Session Key Generation
  • Cipher Suite Confirmation
• Secure Data Transfer
  • Data Encryption
  • Data Integrity
  • Data Decryption and Verification
• Session Closure
  • Closure Alert
  • Closure Handshake

23: What is a VPN and how does it enhance security?

Through the use of a virtual private network, or VPN, a safe and encrypted connection can be established across a public network like the Internet.  Even if clients are linked to a public network, they are able to access and transfer data secretly and safely as if they were directly associated with a private network.

24: Explain the concept of multi-factor authentication.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA), often referred to as two-factor authentication (2FA) or layered authentication, is an authentication method that necessitates that users present two or more distinct forms of proof of their identity before being granted access to a system, application, or service.  In addition to the conventional username and password authentication, it offers another level of protection.  The tenet of “something you know, something you have, and something you are” serves as the foundation for MFA.

25: What is a honeypot, and how is it used in cybersecurity?

A honeypot is a fake system or network that is used in cybersecurity to lure in and trick prospective adversaries.  It is a deliberately exposed, segregated ecosystem that seems to hold significant info or resources, but its main objective is to learn more about attackers, their methods, and their motivations.  Honeypots are a useful tool for researching and comprehending cyber dangers as well as a proactive security strategy.

26: What is the role of encryption in securing data at rest and in transit?

In order to protect data while it is in transit as well as at rest, encryption is essential. It is a fundamental approach used to safeguard the privacy and security of the data and prevent unwanted utilization of private information.  Here is a clarification of how encryption is used to protect data both in transit and at rest:

• Data at Rest:

Data that is stored or persistent on tangible or digitally stored gadgets, including hard drives, databases, or cloud storage, is referred to as data at rest. Regardless of whether the data is inactive or kept for a long time, encryption is employed to prevent illegal access.  Encrypting data at rest is primarily done to stop unauthorized parties from obtaining or viewing the data, even if they are able to acquire direct or logical entry to the storage media.

• Data in Transit:

Data that is being sent via a network or communication route, like the internet or internal networks, is referred to as data that is in transit.  In order to avoid illegal interception, eavesdropping, or tampering during transmission, encryption is employed to safeguard the privacy and security of data while it is in motion.

27: What is the difference between a virus, worm, and Trojan horse?

Malicious software (malware) includes Trojan horses, worms, and viruses; nevertheless, they differ from one another in terms of how they behave and spread.  The distinctions between viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are described as follows:

• Virus: A computer virus is harmful software that contaminates a host program or hooks itself to executable files, moves from one computer to another, and propagates through user interaction or the running of an infected file. Viruses frequently have a specified payload, like corrupting data, destroying files, or impairing system performance.  They can spread via downloaded files from the internet, portable storage devices, or malicious email attachments.  In addition, the majority of the time, human actions — like clicking a virus-ridden email attachment or launching an infected program — are what allow viruses to spread.
• Worm: Computer worms are standalone programs that replicate themselves and propagate throughout computer networks without the involvement of the user or the requirement to affix themselves to host files. Worms use network protocol flaws or security holes to replicate and obtain illicit entry to systems.  They have a quick rate of spread and can quickly infect various systems.  Worms are frequently capable of scanning network connections, taking advantage of weaknesses, and self-propagating by transmitting replicas of themselves to other machines.  In contrast to viruses, worms can spread independently of current applications or data.
• Trojan Horse: A Trojan horse, or a merely Trojan, is a form of malware that impersonates trustworthy or practical software and tempts users into running or installing it. Trojans do not multiply or propagate automatically as viruses and worms do. As an alternative, they use social engineering strategies to trick consumers into setting them up.  Trojans can be made to carry out a variety of nefarious tasks, including gaining illegal access to a system, capturing confidential data, or opening backdoors for external attackers.  They may be disseminated via rogue websites, email attachments, or software bundles that appear to be legitimate.

In general terms, the main differences between viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are:

• Propagation Method
• Attachment to Host Files
• Means of Spread

28: Explain the concept of network segmentation.

The act of segmenting a computer network into smaller subnetworks also referred to as segments or subnets, is known as network segmentation.  As a result of the isolation between segments, the network is divided into several zones or borders.  Network segmentation increases security, boosts network efficiency, and manages traffic.

29: What is the principle of least privilege (PoLP)?

Giving people or systems only the minimal degree of permissions or privileges necessary for them to carry out their specified jobs or responsibilities is recommended by the principle of least privilege (PoLP), a cybersecurity concept and best practice.  The guiding principle is founded on the notion that restricting access rights lowers the possibility of accidental or deliberate misuse, unlawful entry, and the possible consequences of a security breach.

30: What is a digital certificate and how does it work?

A digital certificate, sometimes referred to as a public key certificate or an SSL/TLS certificate, is a document that can be used to confirm the accuracy and reliability of data in the digital realm.  It serves to set up safe communications, verify the identification of individuals or organizations, and enable encryption.  It is issued by a dependable third party known as a certificate authority (CA).

31: What is a man-in-the-middle attack, and how can it be prevented?

A hacking attempt known as a “man-in-the-middle” (MITM) occurs when an intruder intercepts and modifies messages between the two sides without either party’s knowledge or consent.  The assailant places oneself in the path of communication, giving them the opportunity to eavesdrop, alter, or introduce harmful material.  Gaining unlawful possession of sensitive data, including login credentials, financial information, or personal information, is the aim of an MITM attack.

32: Explain the concept of risk assessment in cybersecurity.

Identification, evaluation, and prioritization of possible dangers and weaknesses to the information systems of a company, assets, and data are all part of the crucial cybersecurity process known as risk assessment.  It generally assists companies in comprehending their present security posture, evaluating the impact that hazards and weaknesses may have, and selecting effective risk mitigation measures.

33: What is a password hash, and why is it used?

An encrypted version of a password generated by a hash function is called a password hash. The method, which is one-way, uses a password as an input and outputs a fixed-length character string referred to as the hash value or password hash.  Password hashes are primarily used to increase security by safeguarding user passwords.

Moreover, we have jotted down the mainstream reason for which the password hashes are thoroughly used:

• Password Storage Security,
• Protection against Password Guessing and Cracking,
• Individual Password Verification,
• Salted Hashes for Increased Security,
• Compatibility with Authentication Protocols, etc.

34: What is the difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption algorithms?

Two major categories of algorithms for encryption employed in cybersecurity are symmetric and asymmetric algorithms.  In addition, the two are different in the following ways:

• Symmetric Encryption:

The same key is used for both encryption and decryption in symmetric encryption, sometimes referred to as secret-key or shared-key encryption.  The secret key is kept private and must initially be disclosed to all persons involved in the communication.  The data is converted from plaintext to ciphertext using the key and vice versa.

• Asymmetric Encryption:

A set of mathematically associated keys — a public key and a private key — are used in asymmetric encryption, commonly referred to as public-key encryption. Although the private key remains a secret, the public key is shared without restriction.  Only the associated private key can be used to decrypt data encrypted with the public key, and vice versa.

35: What is a web application firewall (WAF), and why is it important?

A security tool called a web application firewall (WAF) is made to shield web-based applications against different online dangers and assaults.  It is positioned somewhere between the web app and the client (such as a web browser) and examines HTTP/HTTPS traffic to find and stop unwanted activity and potential security flaws.

In addition, below are some reasons a web application firewall is crucial:

• Protection against Web Application Attacks,
• Vulnerability Mitigation,
• Bot and Malicious Bot Detection,
• DDoS Protection,
• Logging and Monitoring,
• Compliance Requirements,
• Layered Defense, etc.

36: Explain the concept of data loss prevention (DLP).

Data Loss Prevention (DLP) is a group of safety standards and tools intended to guard against the theft or illicit sharing of confidential information within a company.  In this regard, DLP’s main objective is to prevent sensitive and secret data from being stolen, leaked, compromised, or disclosed to unapproved people or organizations.

37: What is a security audit, and what is its purpose?

A business’s safety mechanisms, rules, processes, and technical facilities are systematically evaluated and assessed as part of a security audit to ascertain the efficacy of its safety precautions.  Finding vulnerabilities, flaws, and non-compliance with safety norms or regulations are the main goals of a security audit.  It assists businesses in better understanding their security posture, making wise decisions, and taking the necessary steps to increase their overall security.

38: What is the role of antivirus software in cybersecurity?

By defending computer systems and networks from different kinds of harmful software, often referred to as malware, antivirus software, typically known as anti-malware software, plays a crucial role in cybersecurity.  Additionally, the function of antiviral software is described as follows:

• Malware Detection and Prevention,
• Real-Time Protection,
• Behavioral Analysis,
• Regular Updates,
• Scanning and Removal Tools,
• Web Protection,
• Additional Security Features, etc.

39: What is a virtual machine (VM), and how is it used in cybersecurity?

Multiple operating systems can run concurrently on just one machine due to a software tool known as a virtual machine (VM).  Every virtual machine functions as a separate, autonomous ecosystem with its own operating system, programs, and virtual hardware.

Moreover, a virtual machine is widely used in cybersecurity for diverse purposes, such as the following:

• Definition and Function,
• Sandboxing and Isolation,
• Malware Analysis and Research,
• Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Assessment,
• Training and Education,
• Rapid Deployment and Scalability,
• Snapshot and Recovery, etc.

40: Explain the concept of secure coding practices.

Secure coding practices are a set of rules, ideas, and methods that programmers use to reduce flaws and improve the safety of their code throughout the software development lifecycle.  Establishing strong, resilient programs that can fend off harmful attempts and safeguard confidential information requires secure coding.