(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What is the function of a security exception request process?

1. To manage change requests for systems

2. To allow exceptions to security policies

3. To initiate new security projects

4. To document security incidents

The correct answer is: To allow exceptions to security policies

A security exception request process is designed to allow exceptions to established security policies. In many organizations, security policies are created to bolster overall risk management, ensuring a baseline level of security is maintained. However, there may be legitimate reasons for deviations from these policies—such as unique business needs, technical limitations, or specific project requirements. The process provides a structured approach to handling these exceptions, ensuring that any deviations are formally reviewed, documented, and approved. This helps to maintain accountability and transparency within the organization, ensuring that any potential risks associated with the exception are assessed and mitigated appropriately. It promotes a balance between maintaining robust security practices and accommodating necessary business operations that may not fit the standard policy framework. While managing change requests, initiating new security projects, and documenting security incidents are important processes within a comprehensive cybersecurity framework, they are distinct from the function of a security exception request process, which specifically focuses on granting and managing deviations from existing security policies.