Which term is used for temporary credentials that expire after a single session?

• A. One-Time Password (OTP)
• B. Audit controls
• C. Biometric Authentication
• D. Approval processes

Answer: (A)

Temporary, single-use credentials are best described by one-time passwords. A one-time password is a value that is generated for a specific login or transaction and becomes invalid after it is used, or after a short time window. This means it can’t be reused, so even if it’s intercepted, an attacker can’t exploit it for another session. OTPs are often delivered or generated via a hardware token, a mobile app, or SMS, adding a practical layer of protection beyond static credentials.

Audit controls monitor and record access and actions but don’t serve as credentials themselves. Biometric authentication uses a physical characteristic to verify identity, not a temporary, single-use credential. Approval processes are workflows for granting access and do not function as credential tokens.