GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies Practice Test

What is a primary characteristic of a Directory Traversal attack?

1. It only targets APIs

2. It involves directory code injection

3. It targets database vulnerabilities

4. It is always performed remotely

The correct answer is: It involves directory code injection

A primary characteristic of a Directory Traversal attack is that it involves directory code injection. This type of attack allows an attacker to manipulate file paths by using sequences like "../" to traverse the directory structure of a server. The goal is to gain unauthorized access to files and directories that are stored outside of the web root directory, which could include sensitive configuration files, user data, or system files. This kind of attack exploits insufficient input validation in web applications. When an application fails to properly sanitize user input, it can allow attackers to navigate the file system and interact with files that should not be accessible over the web. Thus, the essence of a Directory Traversal attack lies in its ability to inject directory traversal sequences to access file paths that are presumably protected. The other options do not accurately define this specific type of attack. While Directory Traversal could be performed in the context of various types of applications, it is not limited to APIs, nor does it exclusively focus on database vulnerabilities. Moreover, the attack can be performed remotely, but this characteristic is not defining; it could potentially be executed locally as well. Hence, the focus on directory code injection captures the core mechanism of a Directory Traversal attack effectively.