CompTIA CASP+ Practice Test

What mechanism best protects the confidentiality of data on smartphones used for email access by remote sales reps?

1. Biometric authentication

2. Encryption of data at rest

3. Regular software updates

4. Shared company passwords

The correct answer is: Encryption of data at rest

Encryption of data at rest is the mechanism that best protects the confidentiality of data on smartphones used for email access by remote sales representatives. This approach ensures that sensitive information stored on the device, such as emails and files, is transformed into a format that cannot be easily understood without the appropriate decryption key. As a result, even if a smartphone is lost or stolen, the data remains protected and inaccessible to unauthorized users. This method effectively mitigates risks associated with data breaches, as the compromised data cannot be read without the decryption process. In environments where remote sales reps may be accessing sensitive client data or corporate information, maintaining confidentiality is critical, making encryption a vital security measure. In contrast, while biometric authentication provides an additional layer of security by verifying the identity of the user accessing the device, it does not protect the data itself if the underlying data is not encrypted. Regular software updates are important for maintaining the security of the device and protecting against vulnerabilities, but they do not directly safeguard the confidentiality of stored data. Lastly, relying on shared company passwords introduces risks of unauthorized access and can compromise security if not managed properly.