Question

In a rapidly evolving it environment, a cloud service provider offers various services to businesses, enabling them to store and process data securely. to enhance security, the provider regularly updates its systems and software. despite these efforts, a security researcher discovers a previously unknown vulnerability in one of the cloud-specific applications, leaving customer data exposed to potential threats. in this scenario, which vulnerability is the security researcher likely to have found in the cloud-specific application?

a. SQL injection vulnerability
b. Network misconfiguration
c. Zero-day vulnerability
d. Cross-site scripting vulnerability

Answer 1

Option C: In the described scenario, a security researcher has likely found a Zero-day vulnerability in a cloud application, which is a flaw unknown to the vendor with no available patches at the time of discovery.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the scenario where a security researcher discovers a previously unknown vulnerability in a cloud-specific application, the most likely type of vulnerability found is a c. Zero-day vulnerability. This term refers to a flaw that is not yet known to the software vendor, and as a result, there is no patch or fix available at the time of discovery. Zero-day vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they offer an opportunity for cybercriminals to exploit the vulnerability before a defense can be developed.

Highly publicized data breaches, such as those affecting companies like Target and JP Morgan or incidents like the iCloud leaks, underscore the importance of addressing these security flaws promptly. The security risks associated with such vulnerabilities can lead to the loss of privacy, identity theft, and significant damage to a company's reputation.

The continuous evolution of online threats requires companies to remain vigilant and proactive in their security practices to protect their systems and sensitive customer data against emerging threats.