Isaca CISM Certified Information Security Manager Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 10 Q181-200

Visit here for our full Isaca CISM exam dumps and practice test questions.

Question 181

A CISM professional is evaluating a new cloud service provider. Which factor is most critical to ensure compliance with organizational policies?

A) Vendor branding and marketing materials
B) Contractual obligations regarding data protection and privacy
C) Number of employees in the vendor’s IT department
D) Vendor’s physical office locations

Answer: B) Contractual obligations regarding data protection and privacy

Explanation 

When engaging with a cloud service provider, contractual obligations regarding data protection and privacy are paramount to ensure compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements. Organizations often rely on third-party providers to process, store, or transmit sensitive information. Failure to ensure that the vendor adheres to adequate data protection measures can result in regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and operational disruptions.

Contracts should explicitly define responsibilities for data security, incident reporting, access controls, data retention, encryption, and compliance with relevant laws such as GDPR, HIPAA, or industry-specific regulations. A well-drafted contract acts as a legally enforceable framework, holding the vendor accountable for maintaining required security standards and addressing any breaches effectively.

Other factors, such as marketing materials, office locations, or the number of IT staff, are secondary considerations. While vendor reputation and physical security may contribute to confidence, they do not substitute for formal contractual obligations that clearly define security responsibilities, accountability, and compliance requirements.

From a CISM perspective, evaluating contractual obligations aligns with the governance domain, emphasizing risk-based decisions, policy enforcement, and regulatory compliance. It ensures that third-party engagements support organizational objectives while mitigating exposure to information security and legal risks.

A thorough assessment may also include reviewing vendor audits, certifications (e.g., ISO 27001, SOC 2), and service-level agreements (SLAs). These documents assure that the vendor operates under defined security controls and processes consistent with contractual commitments. Additionally, clauses for monitoring, reporting, and audit rights are essential to verify ongoing compliance and address changes in the threat environment.

In summary, for third-party cloud service providers, contractual obligations regarding data protection and privacy are the most critical factor to ensure alignment with organizational policies. This approach provides accountability, supports compliance, mitigates risk, and ensures that information security objectives are integrated into vendor management decisions, in line with CISM best practices.

Question 182

Which control type is primarily designed to detect security incidents after they occur?

A) Preventive
B) Detective
C) Corrective
D) Compensating

Answer: B) Detective

Explanation 

Detective controls are designed to identify and alert organizations to security incidents after they occur. Unlike preventive controls, which aim to stop incidents, detective controls monitor, identify, and report events that indicate potential breaches, unauthorized activity, or policy violations. Common examples include intrusion detection systems (IDS), audit logs, security monitoring dashboards, and continuous monitoring tools.

In the CISM framework, detective controls support risk management by providing timely awareness of incidents, enabling organizations to take corrective action and mitigate impact. Without detective mechanisms, incidents may go unnoticed, allowing attackers to escalate privileges, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt business operations.

Detective controls also facilitate compliance and governance. Many regulatory frameworks require organizations to monitor, detect, and report incidents. Audit logs, security alerts, and monitoring reports provide documented evidence of due diligence, supporting legal, regulatory, and internal audit requirements.

Other control types serve different purposes. Preventive controls aim to stop incidents before they occur, such as firewalls, access restrictions, or multi-factor authentication. Corrective controls remediate or repair the effects of incidents, such as restoring data from backups. Compensating controls are alternative measures that mitigate risk when primary controls are impractical. The effectiveness of detective controls depends on proper configuration, coverage, and monitoring. Organizations must ensure that detection systems capture relevant events, correlate signals for meaningful insights, and escalate alerts to responsible personnel. Integration with incident response processes is critical to ensure that detected events are acted upon promptly and appropriately.

Regular testing and evaluation of detective controls are necessary to maintain their effectiveness. Simulated attacks, penetration testing, and audit reviews help verify that detection mechanisms function as intended and provide actionable alerts. Metrics such as mean time to detect (MTTD) are commonly used to assess the performance of detective controls.

In conclusion, detective controls are primarily designed to detect security incidents after they occur. They provide visibility, support timely response, ensure regulatory compliance, and enable continuous improvement of the security posture, aligning with the CISM focus on risk-based information security management.

Question 183

Which of the following is the primary objective of implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA)?

A) To detect malware infections
B) To prevent unauthorized access
C) To monitor user activity
D) To ensure system availability

Answer: B) To prevent unauthorized access

Explanation

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a preventive security control designed to prevent unauthorized access to systems, applications, and sensitive information. MFA requires users to present two or more authentication factors—typically something they know (password), something they have (token, smart card), or something they are (biometric verification). By combining multiple factors, MFA significantly increases the difficulty for attackers to gain access, even if one factor, such as a password, is compromised.

From a CISM perspective, MFA strengthens the organization’s access control framework, supporting governance and risk management objectives. Unauthorized access is a major risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. MFA reduces the likelihood of credential-based attacks, phishing, brute-force attacks, and insider threats.

MFA is preventive, not detective or corrective. While monitoring tools may detect suspicious activity, MFA proactively stops unauthorized users from gaining access. Similarly, corrective measures such as account lockouts or incident response address breaches after they occur, but MFA works to prevent incidents in the first place.

Implementation of MFA should align with organizational risk and compliance requirements. High-risk systems, such as financial applications, administrative portals, or remote access tools, should enforce MFA, reflecting a risk-based approach to control selection. Regulatory frameworks, including PCI DSS, NIST, and HIPAA, often mandate MFA for critical systems to protect sensitive data.

Effective MFA deployment also considers usability and operational impact. Balancing security and user convenience encourages compliance, while careful planning ensures minimal disruption to business processes. Organizations may use adaptive authentication or context-aware mechanisms to dynamically adjust authentication requirements based on risk.

In summary, the primary objective of MFA is to prevent unauthorized access. It strengthens access control, mitigates credential-related risks, aligns with governance and compliance requirements, and supports the overall risk management strategy in line with the CISM framework.

Question 184

During a risk assessment, which factor should a CISM professional prioritize when determining risk impact?

A) Employee job satisfaction
B) Potential financial, operational, and reputational loss
C) Server uptime statistics
D) Vendor brand recognition

Answer: B) Potential financial, operational, and reputational loss

Explanation 

In risk assessment, impact evaluation determines the consequences if a threat exploits a vulnerability. The CISM professional prioritizes factors that affect business objectives, including financial loss, operational disruption, and reputational damage. These elements directly influence organizational decision-making and resource allocation, ensuring that risk mitigation is proportionate to potential harm.

Financial impact assesses potential revenue loss, cost of remediation, legal penalties, or fines. Operational impact evaluates how business processes, productivity, and service delivery might be affected. Reputational impact considers the effect on customer trust, brand value, and market position, which can have long-term strategic consequences.

Other factors, such as employee satisfaction, server uptime statistics, or vendor branding, are secondary or indirect considerations. While they may influence operational efficiency or vendor selection, they do not directly reflect the severity of risk to organizational objectives.

A thorough risk assessment quantifies impact using metrics, scenarios, or qualitative analysis, integrating likelihood to determine overall risk exposure. This informs management decisions regarding risk treatment, including acceptance, mitigation, transfer, or avoidance. It also ensures alignment with organizational risk appetite and supports compliance reporting.

Prioritizing business-relevant impact aligns with the CISM framework, which emphasizes risk-based decision-making, governance, and strategic alignment. It ensures that resources are applied where they can reduce the greatest harm and enhance organizational resilience.

In summary, the CISM professional should prioritize potential financial, operational, and reputational loss when determining risk impact. This ensures that risk management decisions are relevant, strategic, and effective.

Question 180

Which of the following best represents the primary objective of information risk management?

A) Eliminating all security threats
B) Reducing risk to an acceptable level in alignment with business objectives
C) Delegating security decisions to IT staff
D) Monitoring network traffic continuously

Answer: B) Reducing risk to an acceptable level in alignment with business objectives

Explanation

The primary objective of information risk management is not to eliminate all threats—which is impossible—but to reduce risk to levels acceptable to the organization while supporting business objectives. This aligns with the CISM framework, which emphasizes risk-based decision-making, governance, and strategic alignment between security initiatives and business priorities.

Information risk management involves identifying, assessing, and treating risks to information assets. Risks are evaluated based on likelihood and impact, allowing organizations to prioritize mitigation strategies. By focusing on risks that exceed the organization’s risk appetite, resources can be allocated efficiently to reduce exposure in critical areas.

Reducing risk to an acceptable level may involve implementing controls, transferring risk through insurance, accepting residual risk, or avoiding certain activities. This flexible, strategic approach ensures that security decisions are proportional to potential business impact rather than reactive or purely technical.

Delegating security decisions solely to IT staff or monitoring network traffic alone does not ensure alignment with business objectives. Risk management requires a strategic perspective that considers financial, operational, and reputational consequences, ensuring that security supports enterprise goals.

Continuous assessment, monitoring, and adaptation are essential. Threat landscapes evolve, business objectives change, and regulatory requirements shift. Effective risk management incorporates ongoing evaluation to maintain acceptable risk levels while enabling business operations.

In conclusion, the primary objective of information risk management is to reduce risk to an acceptable level in alignment with business objectives. It balances protection, business efficiency, and strategic priorities, embodying the core principles of the CISM framework.

Question 185

Which of the following best describes the CISM professional’s role in incident management?

A) Executing antivirus scans
B) Coordinating response and recovery efforts
C) Monitoring network traffic 24/7
D) Writing intrusion detection signatures

Answer: B) Coordinating response and recovery efforts

Explanation

The CISM professional’s role in incident management is strategic, focusing on coordination, governance, and ensuring alignment with business objectives. Unlike operational staff, who execute antivirus scans, monitor networks, or write detection signatures, the CISM professional oversees the response process, ensuring incidents are handled effectively, efficiently, and in compliance with organizational policies and regulations.

Coordination involves defining roles and responsibilities, managing communication among stakeholders, prioritizing actions based on business impact, and directing the recovery process. This includes liaison with IT operations, legal, compliance, communications, and executive management to minimize business disruption and reputational damage. For example, during a breach of customer data, the CISM professional ensures that response teams contain the threat, notify affected parties if required, and restore services according to recovery objectives.

Effective incident management also requires integration with risk management processes. By understanding the organization’s risk appetite and critical assets, the CISM professional ensures that response efforts focus on areas with the highest potential business impact. Governance oversight includes verifying that the incident response plan is followed, regulatory obligations are met, and lessons learned are captured to improve future readiness.

While operational tasks are essential to detect and mitigate threats, they are tactical rather than strategic. CISM professionals bridge the gap between technical operations and organizational leadership, translating technical events into a business context, and ensuring that security incidents are managed with risk-informed decision-making.

Post-incident activities, including root cause analysis, policy updates, and awareness training, fall under the CISM’s responsibilities. By facilitating continuous improvement, the professional strengthens the overall security posture and reduces the likelihood and impact of future incidents.

In summary, coordinating response and recovery efforts is the core role of a CISM professional in incident management. This ensures that incidents are addressed promptly, resources are prioritized effectively, regulatory requirements are met, and lessons learned enhance organizational resilience.

Question 186

Which of the following is a key objective of implementing a data classification program?
A) To increase IT operational complexity
B) To ensure sensitive information is protected according to its value and risk
C) To restrict access to all employees equally
D) To monitor network traffic in real time

Answer: B) To ensure sensitive information is protected according to its value and risk

Explanation

Data classification is a foundational component of information security governance. Its primary objective is to categorize information based on its sensitivity, value, and risk to the organization. By assigning classifications such as “Confidential,” “Internal Use Only,” or “Public,” organizations can apply appropriate controls to protect data from unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss.

A robust data classification program supports risk-based decision-making. For high-value or highly sensitive information, stronger protective measures are implemented, such as encryption, strict access controls, and monitoring. For lower-risk information, less restrictive measures may suffice. This ensures resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.

From a compliance perspective, classification programs facilitate adherence to regulatory requirements such as GDPR, HIPAA, or SOX, which mandate the protection of sensitive personal, financial, or health-related information. Clearly classified data also aids auditability, demonstrating that the organization has identified, assessed, and protected its most critical information assets.

Other options, like increasing IT complexity, restricting all employees equally, or monitoring network traffic, do not achieve the strategic goal of classification. Applying identical controls to all data is inefficient and ineffective, while IT complexity or monitoring may provide operational support but not strategic protection aligned with business value.

Implementing a data classification program requires governance oversight, clear policies, employee awareness, and periodic review. Roles and responsibilities should be defined, including data owners, custodians, and users. Training ensures staff understand classification labels, handling procedures, and responsibilities for protecting sensitive information.

Periodic audits and reviews help maintain the accuracy and relevance of classifications. As business processes evolve, new data is created, and regulations change, classification levels and associated controls must be updated. This ensures that the program remains effective, relevant, and aligned with organizational objectives.

In summary, the key objective of a data classification program is to ensure that sensitive information is protected according to its value and risk. It enables efficient resource allocation, regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, and informed decision-making, reflecting CISM’s focus on governance, risk management, and strategic alignment.

Question 187

Which of the following best describes a risk appetite?

A) The total number of incidents an organization experiences
B) The level of risk an organization is willing to accept to achieve its objectives
C) The amount of funds allocated to IT operations
D) The list of all security controls implemented

Answer: B) The level of risk an organization is willing to accept to achieve its objectives

Explanation 

Risk appetite is the threshold or level of risk that an organization is prepared to accept while pursuing its business objectives. It is a fundamental concept in governance and risk management, helping organizations balance opportunity and security while ensuring that risks remain within acceptable boundaries.

Understanding risk appetite allows executives and CISM professionals to prioritize security initiatives, allocate resources efficiently, and make informed decisions. For instance, an organization with a low tolerance for reputational damage may invest heavily in data protection measures, while another with a higher tolerance may accept certain operational risks to achieve strategic growth faster.

Risk appetite is influenced by factors such as organizational culture, regulatory environment, financial capacity, stakeholder expectations, and strategic objectives. It guides the selection of controls, the degree of risk mitigation required, and the level of residual risk deemed acceptable. This ensures that security decisions align with business priorities rather than being purely technical or arbitrary.

Other options, such as the total number of incidents, IT budget, or list of controls, are operational or historical measures. While useful for understanding risk exposure or resource allocation, they do not define the organization’s strategic willingness to accept risk.

CISM professionals use risk appetite to communicate risk decisions to stakeholders, justify security investments, and establish governance frameworks. It also supports consistency in decision-making, ensuring that security and risk management practices align with organizational priorities.

Monitoring and reviewing risk appetite is essential. As the organization evolves, regulatory requirements change, or the threat landscape shifts, the acceptable level of risk may also change. Periodic reassessment ensures that security strategies remain aligned with business objectives and governance expectations.

In summary, risk appetite represents the level of risk an organization is willing to accept to achieve its objectives. It provides a strategic framework for decision-making, resource allocation, and governance, supporting effective risk management in alignment with CISM principles.

Question 188

Which of the following is a key benefit of conducting post-incident reviews?

A) Reducing the number of users with system access
B) Identifying lessons learned to improve processes and controls
C) Monitoring system performance in real time
D) Implementing new antivirus software

Answer: B) Identifying lessons learned to improve processes and controls

Explanation 

Post-incident reviews, also called “lessons learned” sessions, are critical to improving organizational resilience and security posture. After a security incident, reviewing the event allows the organization to identify what occurred, why it happened, and how future incidents can be prevented or mitigated.

The primary benefit is process improvement. Post-incident reviews evaluate incident response effectiveness, communication procedures, control deficiencies, and coordination among teams. By analyzing root causes, organizations can implement corrective and preventive actions, update policies, refine procedures, and enhance employee training. This aligns with CISM’s focus on continuous improvement, risk management, and governance.

Another benefit is knowledge sharing. Lessons learned sessions promote cross-functional understanding of threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation strategies. This ensures that all stakeholders, from IT operations to senior management, are informed and better prepared for future incidents.

Other options, such as reducing user access, monitoring performance, or deploying antivirus software, are tactical or operational measures. While they may be part of the corrective response, the key strategic benefit of post-incident reviews is the systematic identification of lessons to strengthen governance and controls.

Documenting lessons learned also supports regulatory compliance. Many frameworks require organizations to demonstrate incident response effectiveness, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement. Reports from post-incident reviews provide evidence that governance and risk management processes are actively maintained.

Finally, integrating findings from post-incident reviews into risk assessments and business continuity planning enhances organizational resilience. It ensures that controls remain effective, emerging threats are addressed, and the organization can recover more efficiently from future incidents.

In summary, the key benefit of conducting post-incident reviews is identifying lessons learned to improve processes and controls. This promotes continuous improvement, strengthens governance, ensures compliance, and enhances organizational resilience, consistent with CISM principles.

Question 189

Which of the following is the primary purpose of a security policy?

A) To document procedures for every IT operation
B) To provide management direction and support for information security
C) To configure firewalls and antivirus software
D) To monitor network traffic continuously

Answer: B) To provide management direction and support for information security

Explanation

A security policy is a formal document that provides management direction, guidance, and support for information security across the organization. It establishes the organization’s commitment to protecting information assets and sets the framework for governance, risk management, and compliance. Unlike operational procedures or technical configurations, the policy focuses on high-level expectations and responsibilities.

The policy defines roles, responsibilities, and behavioral expectations for employees, contractors, and third parties. It articulates principles such as confidentiality, integrity, availability, acceptable use, and compliance with laws and regulations. By providing a top-down mandate, it ensures that security is aligned with organizational objectives and that all personnel understand their responsibilities.

Operational procedures, firewall configurations, antivirus implementations, and continuous monitoring are tactical or technical activities that support policy objectives. They translate the policy into practical controls and processes. Without a security policy, these operational activities may lack consistency, direction, or alignment with business goals.

From a CISM perspective, a security policy is a governance tool. It supports decision-making, accountability, and compliance by providing a clear statement of management’s expectations. Policies also serve as the basis for audits, risk assessments, awareness programs, and enforcement of controls.

Effective security policies are living documents, periodically reviewed and updated to reflect changes in technology, business processes, threats, and regulatory requirements. Clear communication, employee awareness programs, and executive sponsorship are critical for successful policy adoption and enforcement.

In summary, the primary purpose of a security policy is to provide management direction and support for information security. It establishes governance, aligns security with business objectives, and provides a foundation for operational controls, compliance, and risk management, reflecting the core CISM principles.

Question 190

Which of the following is the most effective method to manage insider threats?

A) Deploy antivirus software on all endpoints
B) Implement a combination of preventive, detective, and corrective controls
C) Rely solely on security awareness training
D) Monitor network traffic continuously without controls

Answer: B) Implement a combination of preventive, detective, and corrective controls

Explanation

Insider threats arise from employees, contractors, or other trusted individuals who misuse their access, whether maliciously or accidentally. Managing these threats effectively requires a layered approach combining preventive, detective, and corrective controls rather than relying on a single method.

Preventive controls reduce the likelihood of insider misuse. Examples include role-based access control (RBAC), least privilege enforcement, separation of duties, and strong authentication mechanisms. These measures limit opportunities for inappropriate actions and reduce the risk exposure of critical assets.

Detective controls identify suspicious or unauthorized activity. Audit logs, intrusion detection systems, behavioral analytics, and anomaly monitoring can detect unusual patterns of access or activity. By detecting incidents early, organizations can respond before significant damage occurs.

Corrective controls remediate the effects of insider incidents and prevent recurrence. Examples include account suspension, process revisions, disciplinary actions, and system recovery procedures. Corrective measures ensure that the organization can recover from incidents while addressing root causes.

Relying solely on antivirus software or security awareness training is insufficient. Antivirus software targets external malware, not insider misuse. Awareness training is important, but it does not enforce controls or detect real-time incidents. Similarly, monitoring network traffic without a structured control framework may generate alerts but lacks the governance and response components necessary for effective risk mitigation.

From a CISM perspective, combining preventive, detective, and corrective controls aligns with governance, risk management, and operational effectiveness. It ensures that insider risks are mitigated, detected, and remediated, providing comprehensive protection while supporting compliance and business objectives.

In summary, the most effective method to manage insider threats is implementing a combination of preventive, detective, and corrective controls. This layered approach addresses risk holistically, aligns with organizational objectives, and strengthens the overall security posture.

Question 191

Which of the following is a critical consideration when performing vendor risk assessments?

A) Vendor marketing materials
B) Vendor’s information security policies, controls, and compliance posture
C) Office décor and aesthetics
D) Vendor website traffic

Answer: B) Vendor’s information security policies, controls, and compliance posture

Explanation

Vendor risk assessments evaluate third-party providers to ensure they meet organizational security, compliance, and operational requirements. A critical consideration is the vendor’s information security policies, implemented controls, and compliance posture, which directly affect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational data.

Assessing vendor policies involves verifying alignment with organizational requirements and regulatory frameworks. Key areas include access control, data protection, incident response, business continuity, and risk management. Evaluating implemented controls ensures that the vendor actively mitigates threats and vulnerabilities. Compliance assessment confirms adherence to relevant laws, standards, and contractual obligations, providing confidence that the vendor operates responsibly.

Other factors, such as marketing materials, office aesthetics, or website traffic, are largely superficial and do not reliably indicate security maturity or risk exposure. CISM professionals emphasize risk-based evaluation focusing on policies, controls, and compliance to make informed decisions about third-party engagement.

Vendor risk assessments also support governance and contractual enforcement. They help determine appropriate contractual clauses, SLAs, audit rights, and monitoring mechanisms. Periodic reassessment ensures that vendors maintain an adequate security posture over time and adapt to emerging threats.

In summary, the critical consideration for vendor risk assessment is the vendor’s information security policies, controls, and compliance posture. This ensures that third-party engagements support organizational risk management, regulatory compliance, and governance objectives.

Question 192

Which of the following best defines residual risk?

A) The total risk before any controls are applied
B) The risk that remains after controls are implemented
C) Risk that has been fully mitigated
D) Risk associated only with natural disasters

Answer: B) The risk that remains after controls are implemented

Explanation

Residual risk is the portion of risk that remains after security controls, mitigation strategies, or other safeguards have been applied. It represents the remaining exposure that the organization must accept, transfer, or manage through additional measures. Understanding residual risk is critical for governance, as it informs management decisions regarding risk tolerance and resource allocation.

Residual risk arises because no control can eliminate all threats. Technical, administrative, and physical controls reduce risk but cannot guarantee absolute protection. Organizations must therefore determine acceptable residual risk levels aligned with business objectives and risk appetite. For example, even after implementing firewalls, encryption, and monitoring, residual risk of a breach may exist due to sophisticated attacks or insider threats.

Identifying residual risk supports strategic decision-making. It allows organizations to assess whether additional controls are cost-effective, whether risk acceptance is justified, or whether risk transfer mechanisms like insurance are needed. Documenting residual risk also aids in reporting to stakeholders and meeting compliance obligations.

Other definitions, such as total risk before controls, fully mitigated risk, or risk associated solely with natural disasters, do not accurately capture the concept. Residual risk specifically refers to remaining exposure after mitigation efforts.

In summary, residual risk is the risk that remains after controls are implemented. It informs governance, risk management, and decision-making, ensuring that organizational risk is managed in alignment with business objectives, consistent with CISM principles.

Question 193

Which of the following is a key advantage of conducting regular vulnerability assessments?

A) Guaranteeing no security incidents will occur
B) Identifying weaknesses before they can be exploited
C) Eliminating the need for security policies
D) Reducing employee training requirements

Answer: B) Identifying weaknesses before they can be exploited

Explanation

Regular vulnerability assessments are proactive evaluations of systems, applications, and networks to identify weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. Their key advantage is the ability to detect potential vulnerabilities before they are leveraged, allowing organizations to remediate risks and reduce exposure.

Assessments involve scanning for outdated software, misconfigurations, weak passwords, unpatched vulnerabilities, and other security gaps. By prioritizing findings based on severity and business impact, organizations can allocate resources effectively, strengthening the security posture and minimizing potential losses.

Vulnerability assessments complement other security initiatives such as patch management, penetration testing, and security monitoring. They provide actionable insights to support continuous improvement and compliance, aligning with governance and risk management objectives emphasized by the CISM framework.

Other options, such as guaranteeing no incidents, eliminating policies, or reducing training, are incorrect. No assessment can guarantee absolute security, and policies and training remain essential for holistic risk management.

In summary, the key advantage of regular vulnerability assessments is identifying weaknesses before they can be exploited. This proactive approach reduces risk, supports governance, ensures compliance, and enhances organizational resilience.

Question 194

Which of the following is the most important factor when designing a business continuity plan (BCP)?

A) Ensuring alignment with critical business processes and recovery objectives
B) Selecting the most expensive recovery technologies
C) Delegating all responsibilities to IT staff
D) Monitoring network traffic in real time

Answer: A) Ensuring alignment with critical business processes and recovery objectives

Explanation

The effectiveness of a business continuity plan (BCP) depends on its alignment with critical business processes and defined recovery objectives. A BCP identifies the organization’s most important functions, their dependencies, and the resources required to maintain or restore operations during a disruption. By focusing on critical processes, the BCP ensures that recovery efforts are prioritized based on business impact rather than convenience or cost.

Recovery objectives, including Recovery Time Objectives (RTOs) and Recovery Point Objectives (RPOs), guide how quickly systems and data must be restored and how much data loss is acceptable. Aligning BCP strategies with these objectives ensures that organizational operations can resume within acceptable thresholds, minimizing financial, operational, and reputational damage.

Other factors, such as selecting expensive technologies, delegating all responsibilities to IT, or monitoring network traffic, do not ensure alignment with business priorities and may be inefficient or ineffective. Governance oversight and strategic planning are critical to ensure the BCP supports organizational resilience.

Periodic testing, review, and updates are also essential to maintain alignment with evolving business processes, risks, and regulatory requirements. Communication, training, and stakeholder engagement are crucial to ensure that employees understand their roles during a disruption.

In summary, the most important factor when designing a BCP is ensuring alignment with critical business processes and recovery objectives. This ensures that continuity efforts are prioritized, resources are efficiently used, and organizational resilience is maintained in accordance with CISM principles.

Question 195

Which of the following is the primary purpose of a key risk indicator (KRI)?

A) To track potential risk exposure proactively
B) To configure firewalls
C) To monitor antivirus signatures
D) To replace risk assessments

Answer: A) To track potential risk exposure proactively

Explanation 

A key risk indicator (KRI) is a metric that provides early warning about potential exposure to risk, allowing organizations to take proactive measures. KRIs are used in governance and risk management to monitor trends, detect emerging threats, and assess whether risk levels are approaching thresholds that require intervention.

KRIs are linked to organizational objectives and risk appetite. For example, a spike in unauthorized access attempts or late patch implementation may indicate increasing exposure to security risks. By tracking KRIs over time, management can anticipate problems, allocate resources, and implement mitigating controls before incidents occur.

KRIs do not replace risk assessments. Instead, they complement them by providing continuous monitoring and measurement of risk indicators. Technical activities like firewall configuration or antivirus monitoring are operational controls and not KRIs themselves.

Effective KRIs are specific, measurable, actionable, relevant, and timely (SMART). They support informed decision-making, enhance accountability, and provide a quantifiable method to evaluate the effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies.

In summary, the primary purpose of a KRI is to track potential risk exposure proactively. This enables early intervention, risk-informed decision-making, and continuous improvement consistent with the CISM framework.

Question 196

Which of the following is the primary goal of implementing role-based access control (RBAC)?

A) To assign the same permissions to all users
B) To ensure access is granted based on job responsibilities and the principle of least privilege
C) To monitor network traffic continuously
D) To replace security policies

Answer: B) To ensure access is granted based on job responsibilities and the principle of least privilege

Explanation

Role-based access control (RBAC) is an access management strategy designed to align user permissions with their job responsibilities. The primary goal is to ensure that employees have the access necessary to perform their roles while minimizing excess privileges, thereby enforcing the principle of least privilege. This approach reduces the risk of unauthorized access, accidental misuse, and insider threats.

RBAC involves defining roles that reflect organizational functions, assigning permissions to these roles, and then associating users with appropriate roles. By centralizing access control, RBAC simplifies management, improves accountability, and ensures consistent enforcement of security policies.

Implementing RBAC supports governance, risk management, and compliance. It demonstrates a structured, auditable approach to access control, which is often required by regulatory frameworks such as SOX, HIPAA, and ISO 27001. It also facilitates periodic access reviews, allowing organizations to validate that users retain appropriate access as roles change.

Other options, such as assigning the same permissions to all users, monitoring network traffic, or replacing security policies, are incorrect. Blanket permissions violate least privilege, operational monitoring is a separate control activity, and RBAC supplements rather than replaces policies.

Periodic audits, user awareness, and proper role definitions are critical to the success of RBAC. Misconfigured roles or overly broad permissions can undermine its effectiveness. Integration with identity management systems and automated provisioning can further enhance efficiency and security.

In summary, the primary goal of RBAC is to ensure access is granted based on job responsibilities and the principle of least privilege. It aligns security controls with organizational objectives, reduces risk, and supports compliance, consistent with CISM principles.

Question 197

Which of the following is the most effective method to ensure information security policies are followed?

A) Conduct regular training, awareness, and enforcement mechanisms
B) Assume employees will comply without guidance
C) Delegate all enforcement to IT staff
D) Monitor network traffic only

Answer: A) Conduct regular training, awareness, and enforcement mechanisms

Explanation

Ensuring that information security policies are followed requires a combination of awareness, training, and enforcement mechanisms. Employees must understand policies, their responsibilities, and the potential consequences of noncompliance. Awareness programs help translate policy language into actionable behavior, improving adherence.

Training provides structured education on procedures, risk scenarios, and organizational expectations. It should be role-specific, practical, and regularly updated to address evolving threats and changes in policies. Enforcement mechanisms, such as monitoring compliance, audits, and disciplinary measures, ensure that policies are actively applied and noncompliance is addressed promptly.

Assuming employees will comply without guidance is ineffective, as human error, lack of awareness, or misunderstanding can lead to violations. Delegating enforcement solely to IT staff or monitoring network traffic alone does not address policy comprehension or organizational culture, which are essential for effective implementation.

Periodic assessments, audits, and feedback loops help evaluate policy adherence. Lessons learned from incidents should inform policy updates and training programs. Clear communication of expectations from leadership reinforces the importance of compliance and integrates security into organizational culture.

From a CISM perspective, combining awareness, training, and enforcement aligns with governance and risk management objectives. It ensures that policies achieve their intended purpose, controls are applied consistently, and risk is mitigated effectively.

In summary, the most effective method to ensure information security policies are followed is conducting regular training, awareness, and enforcement mechanisms. This approach fosters understanding, accountability, and compliance while supporting organizational resilience.

Question 198

Which of the following is the primary objective of performing a business impact analysis (BIA)?

A) To identify and prioritize critical business processes and their recovery requirements
B) To monitor system logs
C) To configure firewalls
D) To reduce employee turnover

Answer: A) To identify and prioritize critical business processes and their recovery requirements

Explanation

A Business Impact Analysis (BIA) is a critical step in business continuity and disaster recovery planning. Its primary objective is to identify critical business processes, evaluate the potential impact of disruptions, and prioritize recovery efforts. By understanding which processes are essential and the resources they depend on, organizations can allocate recovery resources efficiently and minimize operational, financial, and reputational damage during incidents.

The BIA establishes recovery priorities, recovery time objectives (RTOs), and recovery point objectives (RPOs). These metrics guide the design of backup strategies, failover systems, and continuity plans, ensuring that critical processes are restored within acceptable timelines and with minimal data loss.

Other options, such as monitoring logs, configuring firewalls, or reducing turnover, are operational tasks unrelated to the strategic goal of a BIA. While technical measures and HR management contribute to overall risk management, they do not directly inform process prioritization or recovery objectives.

CISM professionals leverage BIA findings to inform risk management decisions, resource allocation, and business continuity planning. The BIA also serves as a foundation for testing and exercising continuity plans, ensuring organizational readiness and resilience.

Periodic review and updates are essential, as business processes, technologies, and dependencies evolve. Engaging stakeholders across functions ensures that all critical processes are accurately identified and appropriately prioritized.

In summary, the primary objective of performing a BIA is to identify and prioritize critical business processes and their recovery requirements. This ensures strategic continuity planning, effective risk management, and organizational resilience, consistent with CISM principles.

Question 199 

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a security awareness program?

A) To improve employee understanding and behavior regarding information security risks and policies
B) To eliminate all malware from endpoints
C) To monitor network traffic in real time
D) To replace security policies

Answer: A) To improve employee understanding and behavior regarding information security risks and policies

Explanation 

A security awareness program is designed to educate employees about information security risks, organizational policies, and their individual responsibilities. Its primary purpose is to influence behavior, ensuring that personnel act in a secure manner that aligns with governance, risk management, and compliance objectives.

By improving understanding, awareness programs reduce human-related risks such as phishing, social engineering, and accidental data breaches. Training should be role-based, practical, and continuous to adapt to evolving threats and organizational changes. Awareness initiatives can include e-learning, workshops, simulated phishing campaigns, newsletters, and communications from leadership.

While malware elimination, network monitoring, and policies are important, they are operational or procedural measures. Awareness programs complement these controls by fostering a culture of security, enhancing policy adherence, and reducing the likelihood of human error.

Effective programs include metrics to measure impact, such as reduction in incidents, increased reporting of suspicious activities, and improved compliance with policies. Feedback loops and post-training evaluations inform continuous improvement.

From a CISM perspective, security awareness programs support governance and risk management by promoting informed decision-making, compliance, and proactive risk mitigation. They integrate people, processes, and technology to strengthen organizational security posture.

In summary, the purpose of a security awareness program is to improve employee understanding and behavior regarding information security risks and policies. It fosters a culture of security, reduces human risk factors, and supports governance, aligning with CISM principles.

Question 200

Which of the following best defines information security governance?

A) The process of implementing technical controls only
B) The system by which senior management directs, controls, and monitors security activities to support business objectives
C) Day-to-day operational monitoring of systems
D) The installation of antivirus and firewall software

Answer: B) The system by which senior management directs, controls, and monitors security activities to support business objectives

Explanation 

Information security governance is a strategic framework through which senior management establishes direction, authority, and oversight for the organization’s information security program. It ensures that security activities support business objectives, risk management, and regulatory compliance. Governance encompasses policies, roles, responsibilities, and monitoring mechanisms, providing a structured approach to decision-making and accountability.

Governance involves defining expectations for security, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, allocating resources, and monitoring performance. It establishes the foundation for risk management, security policy implementation, incident response, compliance, and continuous improvement.

Day-to-day operations, technical controls, and software installations are operational activities. While essential, they are tactical components of the security program and do not constitute governance. Governance sets the framework within which these activities occur, ensuring that operational actions are consistent with strategic priorities and organizational risk appetite.

Effective information security governance includes regular reporting to senior management and the board, alignment of security initiatives with business objectives, integration with enterprise risk management, and continuous assessment of program effectiveness. It ensures accountability, transparency, and decision-making consistency across the organization.

From a CISM perspective, governance is the cornerstone of the information security program. It emphasizes risk-based management, strategic alignment, policy enforcement, and organizational oversight, ensuring that security supports business continuity and value creation.

In summary, information security governance is the system by which senior management directs, controls, and monitors security activities to support business objectives. It provides strategic oversight, aligns security with enterprise goals, and ensures effective risk management in accordance with CISM principles.