25 Fintech Security Analyst Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Fintech Security Analyst interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. What are your greatest strengths and accomplishments?
How to Answer
This is a great opportunity to discuss the skills and qualities you possess that allow you to excel as a fintech security analyst. Focus on your most recent role and what you accomplished during that time. Be sure to point out what you did well and how you helped your old company.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"I'd say that at my last job my most significant accomplishment was putting a new firewall in place that prevented potentially devastating breaches. When I was hired, the company was very lax with its network security. Immediately, I knew that one of my top priorities was to bolster the security here so the company and its data and employees would be fully protected against bad actors. I researched and selected a well-established and highly-regarded firewall that undoubtedly protected the network in coming days from attempted hacks. I also put anti-virus software in place and kept it updated, in addition to educating employees about how to use two-factor authentication to access the network and not to fall for phishing attempts. I believe that one of my strengths is the expertise I have in the area of network security and my ability to effectively communicate and teach others about it, and I look forward to potentially doing this at your company as well."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Competency
2. In your opinion, why does cybersecurity matter?
How to Answer
An interviewer will want assurance that you understand why your role as a fintech security analyst is important. You may also get this question asked of you by colleagues after you've been hired because not everyone clearly understands cybersecurity. Confidently explain what your definition of cybersecurity is and why you think it matters.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"Cybersecurity is defined as the measures taken to protect a company against the unauthorized use of its electronic data. The main reason why cybersecurity is so important, especially nowadays, is because a breach or hack can cost a company millions of dollars. It might be as simple as the bookkeeper falling for a sophisticated email phishing attempt. That happens and the company's computer systems are suddenly being held ransom unless it pays up. Plus, there's the constant risk of identity theft and website attacks. In today's world, workers need to be educated when it comes to cybersecurity because they are a company's first line of defense. As a result, my role as a security analyst is vitally important because I help to protect the company's profits, reputation, information, websites, and employee identities from hackers and scam artists."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Competency
3. How would you go about securing a network?
How to Answer
There are a variety of things one can do to secure a network. Talk to the interviewer about these different methods. If you have experience in this area, consider using the STAR (situation, task, action, result) method to explain how you have accomplished this in the past.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"I have successfully done this before in past roles. To start, I always find out more about the network that I need to protect. For example, what devices are on it, how many users access it at a given time, what data is on it, and what is its routing method? Once I've learned more about it, I install a firewall that I then continually monitor. I also implement a policy whereby all employees must update their passwords at least every quarter. In some cases, I might even recommend two-factor authentication as well, which just provides more security. In addition, I maintain our anti-virus software by regularly updating it. For any employees who travel, I make sure there is a virtual private network (VPN) in place for them to use. Finally, I educate and frequently remind all employees to follow computer security best practices."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Competency
4. Talk to me about the WannaCry Ransomware Attack of 2017.
How to Answer
Prior to your interview, make sure to brush up on notable cybersecurity breaches that have occurred over the years, as well as recent ones. You'll want to come across as knowledgeable if the interviewer asks you about one of them. Briefly explain the details of what happened.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"The WannaCry attack originated in Asia and was caused by the WannaCry crypto worm. As it spread across the entire world, it preyed on people who still used the unsupported version of Microsoft Windows and hadn't installed the new security update. The worm locked people out of their computers and encrypted their data while asking for a ransom of between $300 and $600 to regain access. The ransom had to be paid in bitcoin. Microsoft quickly released an emergency patch that stopped the attack and a kill switch prevented the infected computers from continuing to spread the worm."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Competency
5. How do you keep your own personal data secure?
How to Answer
Since fintech security analysts are typically given the responsibility of keeping company data protected, you'll want to assure the interviewer that you are capable of keeping your own home network and devices secure as well. Discuss the process and methods you use to achieve this. Consider mentioning the use of strong passwords, two-factor authentication, encryption, and even physical security measures.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"Since I protect networks for a living, this comes naturally to me when I'm at home. To protect my own wireless home network, right off the bat I always make sure to change its name because this helps to disguise the type of router I have (and hence any vulnerabilities it may have). I also set a strong and unique password for my network that is at least 20 characters long and includes numbers, letters, and symbols. I activate network encryption and also turn off my wireless home network when I'm on vacation so bad actors have less opportunities to try and hack it. Finally, I physically locate my router in the middle of my house so it doesn't reach too far outside of my house where it can be intercepted."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Competency
6. How much do you know about industry cybersecurity law?
How to Answer
Fintech is a highly regulated industry, and it can be challenging to keep company apps and platforms both secure and legally compliant. Discuss with the interviewer your knowledge around the legal frameworks and requirements in this field. Provide real-life examples of your experience in this area, if possible.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"Within my last role, various teams came together to develop a secure and compliant financial platform, but it took time, money, and lots of research to do it. We had to consider issues like identity management, data ownership, cybersecurity, and regional fintech data protection regulations. Cybersecurity was a primary focus throughout development, and we put in place data encryption and tokenization, role-based access controls, strict password policies, and authentication. During this time, I became very familiar with the California Privacy Act and the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). As a result, I'm an expert when it comes to knowing what user data can be collected, how it can be used, when users need to be alerted, and more."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Competency
7. How do you permanently prevent malicious actors from accessing sensitive data?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants assurance that you are an expert when it comes to protecting their company's data. Assure them that you know what to do to permanently stop hackers from obtaining sensitive data.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"The only way to 100% prevent bad actors from acquiring sensitive data is to physically destroy it. But it's important to note that you can't just delete the files or put them in the trash can on your desktop. You literally need to obliterate the physical medium that is housing the data. This can mean smashing, melting, shredding, waving a magnet over the disk or devise, or overwriting the old data with new information. I have done this before - taken a hammer to a company's old servers. It's a great way to take out your aggression! But, most importantly, the data is then gone forever and can never get into the wrong hands."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Discovery
8. Where do you see yourself in five years?
How to Answer
An interviewer asks this kind of question because they want to be assured that you'll stick around for a while if they hire you. Make sure to emphasize that you want to remain in the cybersecurity field and that you're passionate about it. Discuss how over time you're planning to increase your skills and how this will benefit their company.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"By nature, I'm analytical and detail-oriented. I'm also highly fascinated by cybersecurity, and, along with technology, it's been a passion of mine since high school. I know being in this field is what I'm cut out to do, and now that I have several years of experience, I'm confident that I'll excel in this position. As I move forward, I plan to continue learning and taking online courses to strengthen and increase my knowledge and expertise. Within five years, I'm hopeful that I'll be promoted to a more senior position, perhaps in management because I enjoy leading others."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Discovery
9. Why are you looking for a new job?
How to Answer
An interviewer asks this kind of question in order to learn more about your motivations and goals. They are also looking for red flags so be sure you don't say anything negative at all about your current employer since doing so will only reflect poorly on you. Instead, focus on reasons like expanding your skillset, taking on more responsibility, or working for a company that provides more opportunities for growth. Be enthusiastic and talk about why you want to work for this company in particular.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"I'm looking to make a move in my career because I'm ready for something new. I've worked within my current position since I graduated college. It's been great, and I love everyone I work with, but I'm ready to move on and meet new people. I specifically applied to this position because your company culture seems like the perfect fit for me, and I am confident that I have the experience and knowledge to excel in this role. I'm interested in working for a startup like yours in particular because of its flat structure and agility. I know that I'm well suited to this kind of environment."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Discovery
10. What do you plan to do your first 90 days on the job?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to get a sense of how you envision your first days going if they hire you. Discuss how you'll meet with your managers and coworkers in order to build a rapport and to gain an understanding of their expectations for you. You can also talk about how you plan to learn about the company, its products, and its security needs. Emphasize how excited and eager you are to potentially move forward with the company.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"The first thing I would likely do after starting the job would be to thoroughly educate myself about the company and its products. I'd conduct research even before my first day; then upon starting I would attend any available demos, talk to my managers and new colleagues, and schedule meetings to learn whatever I can. Simultaneously, I will start building relationships with my new team and manager. I'd make sure I'm clear on exactly what my responsibilities are and what is expected of me. I'd also try to find out what I can do to make an impact right away on the security needs of the company."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Discovery
11. How do you stay abreast of new developments in technology and cybersecurity?
How to Answer
It's the job of a fintech security analyst to continually stay ahead of the malicious actors out there. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically stay in-the-know when it comes to new viruses and malware, as well as methods to keep company networks protected. If you read specific industry blogs, mention them by name. Emphasize that you stay current so you can remain cutting edge when it comes to your job.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"Cybersecurity is ever-changing as it responds and adapts to new threats and technologies. It's imperative that I keep tabs on what's happening in the world and especially when it comes to technology and cybersecurity. I tend to read the newspaper most days, or the news online, just to stay up on current events. In addition, I like to peruse industry blogs in my spare time. My favorites include Krebs on Security, Daniel Miessler, and Zero Day on ZDNet, but I'll read anything that piques my interest. I use the information I glean from these sources as I strategize to protect my company's network and employees, and I will continue to do this if you decide to hire me."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Scenario
12. Say an employee wants to use a company device on public wi-fi. How do you ensure the security of the device?
How to Answer
This question provides a typical situation that you may encounter as a security analyst in the fintech industry. Part of your job responsibilities will be to educate your colleagues on how to maintain security on their devices, even when traveling or working remotely. Explain to the interviewer what you will do to keep your coworkers' devices secure at all times.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"So, in general, I would tell my coworker that it's best to stay off of public wi-fi altogether because it's very risky to use for a variety of reasons. Bad actors sometimes trick people into using rogue wi-fi networks so they can harvest company data; other times, using public wi-fi brings the risk of data being intercepted by a third party. Malware, eavesdropping, and attacks through ad hocs and worms are all potential risks of using public wi-fi. If they absolutely need to use public wi-fi for some reason, I would strongly advise them not to access any sensitive information at all like banking information. Without a doubt, however, it's much better if they use a virtual private network (VPN) instead, and I will work to provide them with one to use. I'd also tell them to avoid using public cell phone chargers and not to connect to any unknown Bluetooth devices."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Scenario
13. Tell me what you'd do if someone asked you to break protocol for them.
How to Answer
Fintech security analysts do sometimes encounter this issue, whether it be a colleague requesting remote access on their personal computer or a manager wanting the ability to access an employee's email or information. In some cases, requests might cross into illegal territory so the interviewer wants assurance that you'll know how to handle this type of situation. Discuss how you'll remain calm and professional but will consult with your manager before moving forward.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"In college, I took a cybersecurity ethics course that covered this subject. If I ever find myself in a questionable situation like this, I will first make sure that I'm clear on the exact request and that I'm not making assumptions or jumping to conclusions. No matter who is making the request, whether it be a coworker or a superior, I will make sure to remain professional and calm, but if I believe there's an issue I will be forthright about it. If this doesn't deter the asker, I'll go up the chain of command and ask my manager for their opinion. Refusing to carry out the action will be easier if I'm backed by my manager who has more authority than me. I'll also point out the potential negative ramifications so the person fully understands why I can't carry out their request."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Situational
14. How did you manage to overcome a problem in your last position?
How to Answer
Everyone makes mistakes sometimes and the interviewer knows this. It's most important to emphasize how you handled the error and what lessons you carried away from it. Use the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) to explain a problem that you dealt with at your last job (whether or not you caused it) and how you successfully overcame it. Emphasize your problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"I previously worked for a fintech startup that provided investment research and recommendations to retail investors. As the security analyst for the company, I was responsible for the security of the company's network, which housed all of the billing and contact information for our subscribers. Well, several years in, our server was breached, and the hackers captured this sensitive subscriber information. Obviously, this had the potential to be devasting for the company in terms of its reputation, as well as financially. I jumped into action. First, I investigated how the breach had happened in the first place. In this case, it appeared that the hackers had exploited an outdated version of Windows that was still being used by one of the company's key tech employees. The attackers gained full control of his computer, which allowed them to install a keylogger and steal all of his passwords, including his SSH credentials. The lesson I learned from this was that I needed to create a structured process to ensure that all employees were continually updating the various programs on their computers, including their anti-virus software and operating system. I collaborated with management and other IT colleagues to communicate with subscribers and set up credit monitoring for them, in addition to examining and strengthening all of our security methods so this would never happen again. Let me tell you, this was a huge learning experience for me, and to this day, I never rest on my laurels when it comes to network security because I am well aware that hackers are always out there looking to take advantage in any way they can."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
15. What is the difference between a worm and a virus?
How to Answer
Expect your interview to be filled with technical questions that test your knowledge. Familiarize yourself with the answers to these kinds of questions before the interview so you can confidently provide definitions, explanations, and examples.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"This is an easy one! The main difference between a virus and a worm, both of which are considered kinds of malware, is that viruses have to be triggered by the activation of their host. In other words, someone needs to execute it or enable a macro in order for the virus to begin inserting its code into other programs on the device. On the other hand, worms are stand-alone malicious programs that don't require a host program or file. Instead, they self-replicate and propagate independently once they breach a system without the need for any human activation. A worm is usually considered more dangerous than a virus because it can spread faster, sometimes at an exponential rate."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
16. Explain the difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption.
How to Answer
Prior to the interview, brush up on your technical terms and concepts so you can easily answer these kinds of questions. You'll want to show the interviewer that you are an expert when it comes to encryption. Define both types of encryption and, if possible, talk about times in the past when you've used them.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"Well, to start, encryption, in general, refers to encoding data in such a way that it's considered secure because only authorized users with a password or key can decrypt it. It is used to protect data. In the case of symmetric encryption, the same key is used to encrypt and decrypt, whereas when it comes to asymmetric encryption different keys are used, one public and one private. Symmetric encryption is typically faster to implement so it's usually the preferred method when data is being transferred in bulk, but asymmetric is considered more secure. In past positions, I've used both methods extensively and so feel comfortable using either."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
17. Discuss what you know about HTTPS, SSL, and TLS.
How to Answer
Demonstrate to the interviewer that you are well versed in these various technologies. Define each term and talk about the differences between them. You'll want to show that you are knowledgeable and experienced in this area.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer, and it is the standard technology used to keep an internet connection secure. It safeguards any sensitive data that is being sent between, for example, a website and a browser so bad actors can't access it. It does this by scrambling the data as it moves between the two systems. TLS, which is an acronym for Transport Layer Security, is an updated, more secure, version of SSL. Meanwhile, HTTPS, which stands for Hyper Text Transfer Protocol Secure, displays in the URL when a website is secured by SSL. If you click on the lock symbol in the browser bar, you'll be able to see the website's SSL certificate."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
18. Talk about the differences between encoding, encrypting, and hashing.
How to Answer
Fintech security analysts should be familiar with encryption and be able to discuss what it is. Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable in this area by defining the various terms and explaining the differences between them.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"These terms are similar to each other and commonly used interchangeably, but there are differences between them that impact when to use them and why they are each important. If used incorrectly, a breach could occur, so it's really important to understand them and how they should be used. Encoding can be defined as a process that involves changing data into a new format using a scheme. Because it is easy to reverse, it typically isn't used to protect data. Encryption, on the other hand, encodes data in such a way that it's considered secure because only authorized users with a password or key can decrypt it. It is used to protect data. Although encryption involves encoding data, they are different because encryption refers to securely encoded data while encoding refers to data that isn't secure. Finally, hashing is the creation of a fixed-length mathematical summary of data, and it isn't reversible. Most of the time it is used to verify the integrity of data or to transform data for authentication purposes (like storing hashed passwords)."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
19. Do you believe DNS monitoring is important? If so, why?
How to Answer
Define what DNS monitoring is, explain how hackers commonly attack DNS, and then express your opinion on whether or not you think the monitoring is important and why. If you have any experience in this area, consider providing a real-life example of a time when you've witnessed the implementation and/or use of DNS monitoring.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"DNS monitoring can be used to secure the communication between browser users and the websites and services they use. In my opinion, utilizing DNS monitoring is a good idea because it can help to diagnose issues, prevent attacks, and preemptively identify security breaches. DNS is commonly targeted by hackers; sometimes they insert false information into a company's DNS cache in order to reroute visitors to a spoofed website to collect their private data. Other times, hackers use DoS or DDoS computers to try and crash a company's website with excessive requests. Within my last position, we used DNS monitoring, which means that we regularly checked DNS records for unexpected changes and outages. This helped us to maintain the credibility and safety of our servers, as well as the safety of our users and websites."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
20. Tell me what the difference is between a threat, vulnerability, and risk.
How to Answer
The interviewer will expect you to have a deep understanding of cybersecurity. Define threats, vulnerabilities, and risks for the interviewer, and discuss some of the differences between the three terms. If possible, talk about a time when you've personally experienced a threat, vulnerability, or risk and what you did about it.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"These three terms are obviously close in nature and so frequently mixed up. I'll start by defining a threat, which is something that we as security analysts are trying to protect against. This can include anything that might exploit a vulnerability, either intentionally or unintentionally, and can destroy or damage an asset, which is something we're trying to protect. A vulnerability, meanwhile, is a weakness in our protection efforts that can be exploited by threats to gain access to an asset. Finally, a risk is the potential loss, damage, or destruction of an asset that occurs because of a threat exploiting a vulnerability."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
21. Explain the three ways to authenticate someone.
How to Answer
In many cases, companies help keep their networks secure by only allowing authenticated users to access it. Show the interviewer how knowledgeable you are about authentication by explaining the three methods that fintech security analysts generally use to authenticate users.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"I am very familiar with the various methods that are used to authenticate users. They include something you know, something you have, and something you are. Something you know is one of the most common authentication methods, and examples include asking the user for a PIN, password, or answer to a security question. In other cases, companies use authenticating devices like ID cards and cell phones to authenticate their employees; these devices are considered something you have. And then there's something you are, which includes things like a signature, fingerprint, or voice password. This type of authentication is usually the hardest to fake. At the last company I worked for, we required two-factor authentication where employees had to put in their password and then enter in a code that was sent to their cell phone in order to access the network."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
22. Describe the difference between data protection in transit and at rest.
How to Answer
This is a technical question that the interviewer is asking to test your knowledge. Provide definitions for both terms and explain the difference between them. You might also discuss some of the methods that can be used to protect both kinds of data.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"Data protection in transit refers to securing data that is sent over a network whereas data protection at rest means to secure data while it's in storage. Bad actors try to access resting data by either physically or digitally accessing the storage device it's on. It's best if both types of data are encrypted because then even if the attacker accesses it they can't understand it without first cracking the encryption. Firewalls and network access control can also be used to help protect both types of data."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
23. What is a three-way handshake?
How to Answer
The interviewer will undoubtedly quiz you on various technological terms since you will be expected to be an expert in this area. Provide an explanation of what a three-way handshake is and how it is used.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"So in layman's terms, I would define a three-way handshake as a way for two devices on a network to start and confirm a session. In other words, it's a three-step process used on a TCP/IP network to make a connection between the server and the client, requiring them to exchange synchronization and acknowledgment packets before the real data communication starts. First, Device A sends a TCP SYN packet comprised of random numbers to the destination server. Next, the server responds by sending an acknowledgment number and Device A's number plus 1. Finally, Device A confirms that it received both numbers by sending back the ACK plus 1, which establishes the session."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
24. How do you define residual risk?
How to Answer
The fact of the matter is that risk can never be entirely eliminated as long as the physical medium housing the data, network, and/or the devices still exist. Talk to the interviewer about the definition of residual risk and how you determine how much residual risk is acceptable.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"So after you mitigate an inherent risk, like putting a firewall in place to protect a network, there's always some remaining risk that hackers might still be able to access the network. This is considered residual risk. Unless you're physically destroying the network, there's always going to be some level of residual risk left after you mitigate the inherent risk. As a fintech security analyst, I always consider what level of residual risk I'm willing to accept. Personally, I calculate residual risk by multiplying likelihood by severity. If it's highly likely that harm will occur and that it will be severe, then I consider the residual risk to be too high. But if the residual risk is low because it's unlikely anyone will be harmed and that it would be a slight harm, then I tend to view this as an acceptable amount of residual risk. When I consider and compare varying options given the resources available to me, I generally choose the one with the lower amount of residual risk."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Technical
25. What is phishing and how can it be stopped?
How to Answer
Phishing is a commonly used scam tactic that malicious actors use to try and steal personal information via email. Explain to the interviewer what phishing is and what steps can be taken to prevent it.
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021
Answer Example
"Phishing occurs when bad actors use email to pose as reputable websites and login apps in order to acquire sensitive information like usernames/passwords and even banking information. When the employee clicks on the fake website or app and enters their information, it is stolen. I think the best way to avoid being duped by a phishing attempt is education, pure and simple. Employees need to be taught not to click on links in emails, even if they appear legit. They should always type the address directly into a website browser instead of clicking through the link in the email. Within my last role, I set up a system called KnowBe4 that sent test phishing emails to the employees of the company randomly. If they fell for any of them, I was able to follow up and explain why they shouldn't click on an email like that in the future. After several months, the employees were very good at spotting malicious emails. Also, installing a robust firewall and spam filters assists in preventing these kinds of emails from reaching inboxes in the first place."
Written by Marcie Wilmot on March 31st, 2021