(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a risk assessment in cybersecurity?

1. To identify and remediate past security issues

2. To ensure compliance with industry regulations

3. To identify, analyze, and evaluate risks to systems and data

4. To assign blame for security breaches

The correct answer is: To identify, analyze, and evaluate risks to systems and data

The purpose of a risk assessment in cybersecurity centers around identifying, analyzing, and evaluating risks to systems and data. This process is crucial as it allows organizations to understand potential threats and vulnerabilities that could impact their information security posture. By systematically examining the assets at risk, the potential impact of security incidents, and the likelihood of such events occurring, organizations can prioritize their resources to mitigate these risks effectively. Through risk assessment, organizations can develop informed strategies for risk management, allocate resources appropriately, and implement necessary safeguards to protect their systems and data. This proactive approach not only helps in securing assets but also aids in ensuring business continuity and minimizing potential financial and reputational damage. While ensuring compliance with industry regulations is an important aspect of cybersecurity, it is merely a byproduct of a comprehensive risk management strategy rather than the primary purpose of a risk assessment. Similarly, identifying and remediating past security issues can be part of the continuous improvement process but does not encapsulate the broader scope of evaluating current and future risks. Assigning blame for security breaches runs counter to the collaborative and constructive approach that risk assessments promote, focusing instead on prevention and improvement rather than fault-finding.