Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Cybersecurity Practice Test

What does sniffing involve in the context of computer networks?

1. Encrypting data during transmission

2. Capturing transmitted data

3. Blocking unauthorized access

4. Distributing network traffic

The correct answer is: Capturing transmitted data

Sniffing in the context of computer networks refers specifically to the act of capturing transmitted data as it flows across the network. This technique is commonly used to monitor traffic and analyze the information packets that traverse the network. Network sniffers, often referred to as packet sniffers, can capture a variety of data, including sensitive information like passwords, emails, and other unencrypted communication. The significance of sniffing lies in its dual purpose; while it can be utilized for legitimate network management and troubleshooting tasks to diagnose performance issues, it can also be exploited maliciously by attackers to gather confidential information without authorization. Understanding sniffing is crucial for cybersecurity professionals, as it emphasizes the importance of implementing adequate security measures, such as encryption, to protect data during transmission and maintain the integrity and confidentiality of the information shared over networks.