Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) CybersecuritySecurity PrinciplesHard
A software development company uses a version control system that meticulously tracks every change made to the source code, including who made the change, when it was made, and what exactly was modified. This system includes cryptographic hashes to ensure that no unauthorized alterations to the code can go undetected. Which security principle is primarily being upheld by this system's use of cryptographic hashes?
- AIntegrity
- BAvailability
- CNon-repudiation
- DConfidentiality
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Integrity
Integrity ensures that data has not been altered or destroyed in an unauthorized manner. Cryptographic hashes are used to verify that data (in this case, source code) remains unchanged from its original state, directly upholding the principle of integrity.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Availability ensures systems and data are accessible when needed.
- C. Non-repudiation ensures that an action or event cannot be denied by the perpetrator.
- D. Confidentiality prevents unauthorized disclosure of information.
Integrity
The security principle that ensures information is accurate, complete, and has not been subject to unauthorized modification or destruction.
- Part of the CIA Triad.
- Often implemented using hashing, digital signatures, and access controls.
- Protects against data tampering and corruption.
Memory trick: CIA: C for 'Can't see it', I for 'Intact', A for 'Always there'