CompTIA CASP+ Practice Test

Which method of access control is most likely to prevent tailgating in a secured area?

1. Proximity readers

2. Man trap

3. Biometric scanners

4. Keypad locks

The correct answer is: Man trap

A man trap is an effective method of access control designed specifically to prevent unauthorized access, such as tailgating. A man trap consists of a small enclosure that requires one person at a time to pass through; it typically has two sets of doors that cannot be opened simultaneously. When one door is closed, the other remains locked until the first is opened and the individual has been authenticated or verified. This setup ensures that even if someone tries to follow a legitimate user through a secured entry point, the system will prevent them from entering, as the second door will remain locked until the first user successfully clears the man trap. This contributes significantly to physical security by allowing for better identification and preventing unauthorized individuals from gaining access behind someone who is legitimately authorized. While proximity readers, biometric scanners, and keypad locks also offer methods of access control, they do not provide the same level of physical barrier that specifically addresses the issue of tailgating. Proximity readers and biometric scanners typically authenticate individuals but do not prevent someone from entering shortly after an authorized person without additional measures. Keypad locks, while secure, can also be bypassed if someone tries to follow immediately after the code has been entered. In contrast, a man trap directly addresses the risk of tailgating