Isaca CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 5 Q61-75
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Question 61
Which control is most effective for ensuring that sensitive data stored in the cloud is protected against unauthorized access?
A) Implementing encryption for data at rest and in transit, along with strict access controls and auditing
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing encryption for data at rest and in transit, along with strict access controls and auditing, is the most effective control for ensuring that sensitive data stored in the cloud is protected against unauthorized access. Cloud environments, by their nature, store data on servers outside the direct control of the organization, introducing unique security risks such as multi-tenancy, data leakage, and unauthorized access. Encryption ensures that data remains confidential even if it is intercepted or improperly accessed. Data at rest encryption protects stored information, while encryption in transit secures data during transmission between users and cloud servers. Strict access controls enforce the principle of least privilege, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data. Role-based access management, strong authentication mechanisms, and periodic access reviews help maintain compliance with security policies and regulatory requirements. Auditing provides visibility into user activity, identifying attempts to access data inappropriately and generating evidence for regulatory compliance and internal governance. The combination of encryption, access control, and auditing provides preventive assurance by reducing the likelihood of unauthorized access and detective assurance by allowing organizations to identify, investigate, and remediate security events. Effective implementation supports standards such as ISO 27017, PCI DSS, and GDPR, and strengthens trust in cloud deployments.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic anomalies. While network monitoring is important for operational performance, it does not protect sensitive data stored in the cloud. Bandwidth metrics provide insight into data transfer patterns but cannot prevent unauthorized access or verify encryption and access control policies.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects devices from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions help maintain endpoint security but do not directly control access to cloud-stored data or enforce encryption policies. Malware prevention complements cloud security but cannot replace robust access control and encryption mechanisms.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates staff about secure cloud usage, phishing prevention, and data handling procedures. While awareness training reduces the likelihood of user error, it does not technically enforce encryption, access control, or auditing. Training is preventive but insufficient as a standalone control for cloud security.
Implementing encryption, strict access controls, and auditing provides a comprehensive defense for cloud-stored data. Encryption ensures confidentiality, access control enforces authorization, and auditing supports monitoring and compliance. These controls work together to prevent unauthorized access, detect anomalies, and demonstrate due diligence. Logs and audit trails allow organizations to verify compliance with policies and regulatory requirements, investigate incidents, and implement corrective measures. Periodic review and testing of access rights, encryption keys, and audit mechanisms help maintain effectiveness, reduce the risk of breaches, and ensure operational integrity. This integrated approach addresses both technical and procedural risks, providing confidence that sensitive data in the cloud is protected against evolving threats.
Implementing encryption for data at rest and in transit, combined with strict access controls and auditing, is the most effective control to protect sensitive cloud data. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational and security objectives but do not provide direct protection or enforce access restrictions. A layered approach combining encryption, access control, and auditing ensures preventive and detective assurance, regulatory compliance, and operational resilience.
Question 62
Which audit procedure is most effective for verifying that backup media are stored securely and can be restored when needed?
A) Reviewing backup storage policies, physical security measures, and performing test restorations
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual employee security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Reviewing backup storage policies, physical security measures, and performing test restorations is the most effective audit procedure for verifying that backup media are stored securely and can be restored when needed. Backups are critical for business continuity and disaster recovery, but their effectiveness depends on proper storage, protection, and validation. Backup storage policies define the retention period, location, handling procedures, encryption requirements, and access control for backup media. Physical security measures, such as locked cabinets, restricted access areas, environmental controls, and offsite storage, protect backup media from theft, damage, or environmental hazards. Performing test restorations validates that backups are complete, accurate, and restorable, ensuring the organization can recover data in the event of system failure, corruption, or disaster. Auditors review policies, security measures, and restoration results to verify compliance and identify gaps. This procedure provides preventive assurance by ensuring backups are securely stored and maintained and detective assurance by verifying that the restoration process functions correctly. Organizations can demonstrate due diligence and meet regulatory or contractual requirements through documentation of backup policies, access logs, and successful restoration tests.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic anomalies. While network monitoring is useful for operational performance, it does not verify the security or restorability of backup media. Bandwidth metrics provide insight into data transfer efficiency but cannot confirm that backups are stored securely or functional.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects systems from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions are essential for security but do not ensure that backup media are properly stored or restorable. Malware prevention complements backup security but cannot validate media integrity or physical protection measures.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates staff on safe backup handling, data protection policies, and security procedures. While training reduces the likelihood of human error, it does not technically verify that backups are stored securely or can be restored. Awareness alone cannot provide evidence of backup effectiveness.
Reviewing backup storage policies, security measures, and performing test restorations ensures that data protection objectives are met. Auditors can identify weak points in storage procedures, validate access control enforcement, and confirm that the restoration process achieves recovery time and recovery point objectives. Test restorations provide practical assurance that backups are usable and meet operational requirements. By combining policy review, physical security, and practical testing, organizations strengthen business continuity planning and mitigate risks of data loss. Documentation of findings supports management, regulators, and auditors in demonstrating due diligence and effective data protection practices. Periodic evaluation and updating of policies and test procedures ensure continued effectiveness in evolving operational and threat environments.
Reviewing backup storage policies, physical security measures, and performing test restorations is the most effective audit procedure for ensuring backup media are secure and recoverable. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational and security objectives but do not verify backup integrity or recoverability. A combination of policy enforcement, physical protection, and restoration testing provides preventive and detective assurance, regulatory compliance, and operational resilience.
Question 63
Which control is most effective for preventing unauthorized modifications to database records?
A) Implementing database access controls, transaction logging, and regular review of modification activity
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual employee security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing database access controls, transaction logging, and regular review of modification activity is the most effective control for preventing unauthorized modifications to database records. Databases contain critical organizational information such as financial data, customer records, and operational data. Unauthorized modifications can lead to data corruption, fraud, compliance violations, and operational disruptions. Access controls ensure that only authorized personnel can perform specific actions such as insert, update, or delete operations, enforcing the principle of least privilege. Role-based access controls, authentication mechanisms, and segregation of duties reduce the likelihood of inappropriate access. Transaction logging captures detailed information about all database modifications, including who made the change, what data was modified, when the change occurred, and the nature of the modification. Regular review of these logs enables auditors and administrators to detect unauthorized changes, investigate anomalies, and take corrective actions. This combination of access controls and monitoring provides preventive assurance by limiting who can modify data and detective assurance by identifying unauthorized or suspicious activity.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and data transfer patterns. While useful for operational and performance monitoring, it does not prevent or detect unauthorized modifications to database records. Bandwidth metrics cannot indicate who modified data, what changes were made, or whether changes were authorized.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects systems from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions are important for maintaining system integrity but do not directly control access to database records or prevent unauthorized modifications. Malware prevention complements database security but cannot provide evidence of access or modification compliance.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates staff on secure data handling, policies, and acceptable use. While awareness reduces accidental errors and policy violations, it does not technically enforce access restrictions or provide audit evidence of modifications. Training alone cannot detect malicious or unauthorized changes to database records.
Implementing database access controls, transaction logging, and periodic review ensures that data integrity is maintained, unauthorized activity is detected, and accountability is established. Auditors can examine access rights, analyze transaction logs, and verify that changes are in compliance with policies and regulations. Regular review and monitoring enable organizations to quickly identify discrepancies, investigate incidents, and apply corrective measures. This approach supports regulatory compliance with standards such as SOX, HIPAA, and GDPR and maintains operational integrity by preventing data tampering, fraud, or accidental data loss. Transaction logs also provide a historical record of changes, aiding forensic investigations and demonstrating due diligence.
Implementing database access controls, transaction logging, and regular review of modification activity is the most effective control to prevent unauthorized modifications to database records. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or security objectives but do not control or audit database changes. Access control combined with logging and review provides preventive and detective assurance, safeguarding data integrity, operational continuity, and regulatory compliance.
Question 64
Which control is most effective for ensuring that wireless networks are secure and protected against unauthorized access?
A) Implementing strong authentication, encryption, and continuous monitoring for wireless access points
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing strong authentication, encryption, and continuous monitoring for wireless access points is the most effective control for ensuring that wireless networks are secure and protected against unauthorized access. Wireless networks inherently carry risks such as signal interception, unauthorized access, rogue access points, and eavesdropping. Strong authentication, such as WPA3 with enterprise credentials or 802.1X network access control, ensures that only authorized users and devices can connect. Encryption protects data in transit, ensuring that communications between wireless devices and network infrastructure remain confidential and resilient to interception. Continuous monitoring of wireless access points helps detect anomalies, unauthorized devices, unusual traffic patterns, or attempts to bypass access controls. Auditors can review authentication logs, monitor encryption protocols, and analyze alerts to verify that wireless networks are secure and compliant with organizational policies and regulatory requirements. This control provides preventive assurance by restricting access to authorized users and detective assurance by identifying and responding to security events. Implementing such measures helps organizations protect sensitive data, maintain operational continuity, and reduce exposure to security threats inherent in wireless communications. Regular assessments and audits of wireless configurations ensure that updates, patches, and security policies remain effective against evolving threats.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic patterns. While useful for detecting congestion or network performance issues, it does not enforce security or prevent unauthorized access on wireless networks. Bandwidth metrics provide operational visibility but cannot validate authentication or encryption effectiveness.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects devices from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Endpoint protection is critical for overall security, but it does not enforce access control or encryption on wireless networks. Malware prevention complements network security but cannot prevent unauthorized connections or ensure data confidentiality.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates employees about safe wireless practices, policy adherence, and phishing risks. Awareness training reduces user errors but cannot technically enforce network access control or encryption protocols. Training is preventive but does not provide evidence of secure wireless operation or auditing.
By implementing strong authentication, encryption, and continuous monitoring, organizations ensure that wireless networks remain secure, detect unauthorized access attempts, and comply with security standards. Logs and alerts provide evidence for audit purposes, while encryption ensures confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted over wireless networks. Continuous monitoring also allows timely identification of rogue access points or security incidents, enabling prompt mitigation. Regular review of authentication credentials, access permissions, and encryption settings ensures that wireless controls remain effective against emerging threats. This integrated approach addresses both technical and procedural aspects of wireless security, supporting operational resilience and regulatory compliance.
Implementing strong authentication, encryption, and continuous monitoring for wireless access points is the most effective control for securing wireless networks. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or security objectives but do not directly enforce access control or encryption. A layered approach combining authentication, encryption, and monitoring provides preventive and detective assurance, protecting data, ensuring compliance, and maintaining network integrity.
Question 65
Which audit procedure is most effective for verifying that system downtime or failures are mitigated by disaster recovery plans?
A) Reviewing disaster recovery plans, conducting periodic simulations, and testing system restoration
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Reviewing disaster recovery plans, conducting periodic simulations, and testing system restoration is the most effective audit procedure for verifying that system downtime or failures are mitigated by disaster recovery plans. Disaster recovery planning is critical to ensure organizational resilience against hardware failures, software errors, cyberattacks, natural disasters, or human error. A disaster recovery plan outlines the recovery strategy, roles and responsibilities, recovery time objectives (RTO), recovery point objectives (RPO), critical systems, and procedures for restoration. Periodic simulations, such as tabletop exercises or failover testing, validate that the plan is executable and that staff understand their responsibilities. Testing system restoration ensures that backups, redundancy measures, and failover systems function correctly and that critical services can be restored within the defined RTO. Auditors review documentation, test results, and restoration logs to verify the effectiveness of disaster recovery measures. This procedure provides preventive assurance by confirming that recovery strategies are well-defined and tested and detective assurance by revealing gaps, failures, or non-compliance with recovery objectives. Effective disaster recovery planning and testing ensure business continuity, maintain operational reliability, and meet regulatory requirements.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and operational performance. While network monitoring can indicate performance issues, it does not verify the effectiveness of disaster recovery plans or the organization’s ability to restore systems after downtime. Bandwidth metrics provide operational insight but cannot demonstrate resilience or recovery readiness.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects devices from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions contribute to security but do not provide assurance that disaster recovery measures are effective. Endpoint protection prevents compromise but does not validate recovery procedures or system restorability.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates employees about policies, incident response, and secure practices. Awareness training reduces human error during recovery activities but does not technically validate disaster recovery plan effectiveness or verify system restoration capabilities. Training alone cannot provide evidence of business continuity readiness.
By reviewing disaster recovery plans, conducting simulations, and testing system restoration, auditors can verify that recovery objectives are achievable and that resources, procedures, and personnel are capable of responding to disruptions. Documentation of tests, issues identified, and corrective actions taken provides evidence of continuous improvement and preparedness. This process supports regulatory compliance, risk management, and operational resilience. Regular review and updates of disaster recovery plans ensure that changes in technology, organizational structure, or business priorities are accounted for, maintaining plan effectiveness over time.
Reviewing disaster recovery plans, conducting periodic simulations, and testing system restoration is the most effective audit procedure for verifying that system downtime or failures are mitigated. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or security goals but do not provide assurance of recovery readiness. Disaster recovery planning with testing provides preventive and detective assurance, operational resilience, and regulatory compliance.
Question 66
Which control is most effective for ensuring that privileged user activity is monitored and controlled?
A) Implementing privileged access management with session monitoring, logging, and periodic review
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing privileged access management with session monitoring, logging, and periodic review is the most effective control for ensuring that privileged user activity is monitored and controlled. Privileged users, such as system administrators, database administrators, or network engineers, have elevated access rights that allow them to modify system configurations, access sensitive data, or perform administrative tasks. Misuse or compromise of privileged accounts can result in severe operational, financial, or regulatory consequences. Privileged access management (PAM) solutions enforce least privilege, grant temporary access, and ensure that elevated privileges are provisioned only when necessary. Session monitoring captures all privileged activity, including commands executed, changes made, and sensitive data accessed, providing transparency and accountability. Logging enables the organization to review activity, identify unauthorized actions, or detect anomalies, while periodic review ensures that access rights remain appropriate and that policies are enforced. This combination of preventive and detective controls reduces the risk of misuse or unauthorized changes and provides evidence for auditing and regulatory compliance. Effective PAM strengthens operational security, safeguards sensitive information, and supports forensic investigations in the event of incidents.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and data patterns. While operationally useful, network monitoring does not enforce access restrictions or provide insight into privileged user actions. Bandwidth metrics cannot prevent misuse or detect inappropriate administrative activities.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects devices from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions support overall security but do not monitor or control privileged user activity. Endpoint protection prevents compromise but cannot verify or restrict administrative actions.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates employees on policies, security practices, and acceptable use. Training reduces accidental or negligent misuse but cannot technically enforce or monitor privileged account activity. Awareness alone does not prevent misuse or provide verifiable audit evidence.
Implementing privileged access management with session monitoring, logging, and periodic review ensures that elevated access is granted, tracked, and reviewed systematically. Auditors can analyze logs, identify anomalies, and verify compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements. Periodic review ensures that access is consistent with role requirements, while session monitoring provides real-time visibility into administrative activity. This control mitigates insider threats, reduces risk of unauthorized changes, and strengthens accountability. Logs provide a historical record of activities, aiding forensic analysis and demonstrating due diligence. By integrating PAM with broader access management and security monitoring processes, organizations maintain operational integrity, protect sensitive systems, and support regulatory compliance.
Implementing privileged access management with session monitoring, logging, and periodic review is the most effective control for monitoring and controlling privileged user activity. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or security objectives but do not enforce privileged access controls. PAM provides preventive and detective assurance, accountability, and regulatory compliance.
Question 67
Which control is most effective for ensuring that software development changes do not introduce security vulnerabilities into production systems?
A) Implementing a formal change management process with code review, testing, and approval prior to deployment
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing a formal change management process with code review, testing, and approval prior to deployment is the most effective control for ensuring that software development changes do not introduce security vulnerabilities into production systems. Development environments are inherently dynamic, with frequent code changes, bug fixes, and feature additions. Without controls, unreviewed or untested changes can introduce vulnerabilities such as insecure coding practices, buffer overflows, SQL injection points, or misconfigurations. A formal change management process establishes standardized procedures for documenting changes, performing code reviews, executing rigorous testing, and obtaining approvals from authorized personnel before deployment. Code reviews help detect logical errors, insecure implementations, or deviations from coding standards, ensuring that potential vulnerabilities are identified and mitigated early. Testing, including unit, integration, and security testing, validates functionality and ensures that changes do not adversely affect the system or introduce security risks. Approval ensures accountability and that only authorized modifications are deployed. Auditors can review documentation, change logs, and approval records to verify compliance with policies and regulatory requirements. This process provides preventive assurance by preventing insecure or unauthorized changes from reaching production and detective assurance by enabling traceability and accountability of all changes.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic patterns. While useful for operational performance, bandwidth monitoring does not ensure the security or integrity of software development changes. It cannot detect insecure code, unauthorized changes, or compliance with development policies.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects devices from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions maintain system integrity but do not enforce development controls or prevent vulnerabilities from being introduced through software changes. Malware protection complements secure development but does not replace testing, review, or approval processes.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates developers on secure coding practices, policies, and compliance obligations. Training helps reduce human error and promotes security awareness but cannot technically enforce code review, testing, or approval. Awareness alone does not prevent insecure changes from being deployed.
A formal change management process with code review, testing, and approval ensures that development changes are properly evaluated and controlled, reducing the likelihood of vulnerabilities entering production. Documentation of reviews, test results, and approvals provides evidence for auditors, regulators, and management, demonstrating due diligence. Regular monitoring and refinement of the change management process help organizations adapt to evolving security threats, technology, and business requirements. By combining preventive measures such as code review and testing with detective controls such as approval logs, organizations can ensure that systems remain secure, reliable, and compliant with regulatory frameworks such as ISO 27001, PCI DSS, or SOX. This integrated approach mitigates operational, security, and compliance risks while supporting continuous improvement in software development practices.
Implementing a formal change management process with code review, testing, and approval prior to deployment is the most effective control for ensuring software changes do not introduce security vulnerabilities. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or security objectives but do not directly prevent insecure development changes. Change management provides preventive and detective assurance, ensuring secure, reliable, and compliant software deployment.
Question 68
Which audit procedure is most effective for verifying that access rights are aligned with current job responsibilities?
A) Reviewing user access rights against HR records, role definitions, and segregation of duties requirements
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Reviewing user access rights against HR records, role definitions, and segregation of duties requirements is the most effective audit procedure for verifying that access rights are aligned with current job responsibilities. Users frequently change roles, departments, or responsibilities, and without periodic access reviews, excessive or inappropriate permissions may accumulate. Reviewing access against HR records ensures that only current employees have access, and their access corresponds to their official roles. Role definitions define what privileges are required for each position, providing a baseline for comparison. Segregation of duties requirements prevent conflicts of interest, such as a user being able to both approve and process financial transactions. Auditors can compare actual access rights with role definitions and HR records to detect excessive privileges, dormant accounts, or unauthorized access. This audit procedure provides preventive assurance by ensuring that access is granted appropriately according to roles and detective assurance by identifying and correcting misaligned permissions. Effective access management reduces the risk of fraud, insider threats, data breaches, and regulatory non-compliance, and helps maintain operational integrity. Documenting access reviews and corrective actions provides evidence for audits, regulators, and management, demonstrating due diligence.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic patterns. While operationally useful, it does not verify whether user access rights align with job responsibilities. Bandwidth monitoring cannot detect unauthorized access or excessive privileges.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects devices from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions support system security but do not validate whether user permissions correspond to their roles or detect segregation of duties violations. Endpoint protection complements access management but cannot enforce role alignment.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates employees on policies, acceptable use, and security responsibilities. Training helps prevent misuse but does not technically enforce alignment of access rights with roles or provide verifiable evidence. Awareness alone cannot prevent excessive privileges or detect inappropriate access.
By reviewing user access rights against HR records, role definitions, and segregation of duties, auditors can identify and correct discrepancies in a systematic manner. Periodic access reviews ensure that users maintain only the access required for their responsibilities, reducing risk and supporting regulatory compliance. Documentation of reviews, adjustments, and approval processes provides a clear audit trail, supporting operational accountability and security governance. Automated tools or identity management systems can facilitate continuous monitoring, alerting administrators to deviations from policy, and streamlining compliance verification. This approach ensures that permissions remain accurate, justified, and aligned with organizational security objectives.
Reviewing user access rights against HR records, role definitions, and segregation of duties requirements is the most effective audit procedure for ensuring access alignment with job responsibilities. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or security objectives but do not verify proper assignment of privileges. Access review provides preventive and detective assurance, reduces risk, and ensures compliance with security and regulatory requirements.
Question 69
Which control is most effective for ensuring that mobile devices used for organizational purposes are secure?
A) Implementing mobile device management (MDM) with encryption, remote wipe, and policy enforcement
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing mobile device management with encryption, remote wipe, and policy enforcement is the most effective control for ensuring that mobile devices used for organizational purposes are secure. Mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops often store sensitive organizational data and access corporate networks. Without proper controls, these devices are vulnerable to theft, loss, malware, unauthorized access, and data leakage. Mobile device management (MDM) solutions enforce security policies, including device encryption, strong authentication, application control, and secure configuration. Encryption protects data at rest on the device, ensuring that sensitive information remains unreadable if the device is lost or stolen. Remote wipe capabilities allow administrators to erase data from lost or compromised devices, reducing the risk of data leakage. Policy enforcement ensures compliance with organizational standards, such as password complexity, device patching, and restricted application usage. Auditing within MDM systems provides visibility into device compliance, unauthorized access attempts, and policy violations. This combination of preventive and detective controls reduces security risks associated with mobile device use, ensures operational continuity, and supports regulatory compliance. Regular monitoring and updates within MDM solutions allow organizations to adapt to evolving threats and technological changes.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic patterns. While network monitoring provides operational insight, it does not secure mobile devices or enforce encryption, authentication, or remote wipe capabilities. Bandwidth metrics cannot prevent unauthorized access or mitigate data leakage.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects mobile devices from malware, ransomware, and viruses. While antivirus solutions complement mobile security, they do not enforce policy compliance, encryption, or remote wipe capabilities. Malware protection reduces risk but does not provide comprehensive control over device security.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates employees about mobile device risks, acceptable use, and security policies. Awareness reduces human error but cannot technically enforce device encryption, remote wipe, or compliance with security policies. Training alone does not ensure mobile device security or regulatory compliance.
By implementing mobile device management with encryption, remote wipe, and policy enforcement, organizations ensure that mobile devices are protected against loss, theft, unauthorized access, and malware. Auditors can review MDM logs, compliance reports, and device configurations to verify effectiveness. Regular assessment of mobile device controls supports risk mitigation, operational security, and regulatory requirements. Integration with access control and endpoint management solutions further strengthens security and accountability. The combination of technical enforcement and monitoring ensures that sensitive data accessed via mobile devices remains protected and that organizations maintain visibility and control over mobile endpoints.
Implementing mobile device management with encryption, remote wipe, and policy enforcement is the most effective control for securing organizational mobile devices. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or security objectives but do not enforce mobile device policies. MDM provides preventive and detective assurance, protects sensitive data, ensures compliance, and reduces risk associated with mobile device use.
Question 70
Which control is most effective for ensuring that critical business applications remain available during system maintenance or failures?
A) Implementing high availability solutions with redundancy, failover mechanisms, and continuous monitoring
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing high availability solutions with redundancy, failover mechanisms, and continuous monitoring is the most effective control for ensuring that critical business applications remain available during system maintenance or failures. Business-critical applications often support operational processes, financial transactions, and customer services, making availability essential. High availability solutions provide system resilience by using redundant hardware, load balancing, clustering, and failover mechanisms to ensure that if one component fails, another can immediately take over, minimizing downtime. Redundant storage systems, network paths, and application instances prevent single points of failure, while load balancing optimizes resource utilization and reduces the risk of performance degradation. Continuous monitoring ensures that any performance issues, component failures, or potential bottlenecks are detected promptly, allowing administrators to take corrective action before downtime affects business operations. Auditors can review system architecture, redundancy configurations, monitoring logs, and failover test results to verify that high availability measures are in place and functioning effectively. This approach provides preventive assurance by reducing the likelihood of service interruptions and detective assurance by enabling detection of potential failures before they impact business processes. Proper implementation of high availability aligns with operational best practices and regulatory requirements, ensuring that critical systems remain accessible even during maintenance or unexpected disruptions.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic patterns. While useful for detecting network performance issues, it does not directly ensure application availability or continuity during failures or maintenance. Bandwidth metrics cannot prevent outages or provide redundancy for critical systems.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects systems from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions are critical for maintaining system security and integrity, but they do not guarantee application availability. Malware protection complements high availability but cannot provide redundancy or failover capabilities.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates employees about security policies and procedures. While awareness reduces operational errors, it cannot technically enforce redundancy, failover, or continuous monitoring of critical applications. Training alone does not ensure system availability.
By implementing high availability solutions with redundancy, failover mechanisms, and continuous monitoring, organizations ensure that critical business applications remain operational even during hardware failures, network interruptions, or maintenance windows. Auditors can verify system design, review monitoring alerts, and assess failover test results to confirm effectiveness. Redundant architectures, load balancing, and failover procedures also improve performance, reduce operational risk, and support business continuity planning. High availability ensures that operational objectives and regulatory compliance requirements related to service availability are met, and that customer and stakeholder trust is maintained.
Implementing high availability solutions with redundancy, failover mechanisms, and continuous monitoring is the most effective control for maintaining critical application availability. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or security objectives but do not guarantee system availability. High availability provides preventive and detective assurance, reduces downtime, supports business continuity, and strengthens operational resilience.
Question 71
Which audit procedure is most effective for verifying that software patches and updates are applied in a timely and consistent manner?
A) Reviewing patch management policies, update logs, and compliance reports
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Reviewing patch management policies, update logs, and compliance reports is the most effective audit procedure for verifying that software patches and updates are applied in a timely and consistent manner. Timely application of patches is essential for maintaining system security, resolving vulnerabilities, and ensuring operational integrity. Patch management policies define the frequency, priority, approval process, testing requirements, and deployment schedule for patches and updates. These policies ensure that critical vulnerabilities are addressed quickly, while lower-risk updates are scheduled appropriately to minimize disruption. Update logs provide a detailed record of which patches were applied, when they were installed, and by whom, allowing auditors to verify compliance with the patch management policy. Compliance reports generated from patch management systems provide summarized information on patch status, missing updates, and potential risks. This audit procedure offers preventive assurance by confirming that policies are in place to enforce timely updates and detective assurance by enabling identification of missing or delayed patches. Effective patch management reduces the risk of cyberattacks, malware infections, and operational failures, while supporting regulatory compliance requirements such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, or ISO 27001. Documentation of policies, logs, and compliance reports provides auditors and management with evidence of due diligence and ongoing risk mitigation.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and data traffic patterns. While it helps identify performance issues or anomalies, it does not ensure that patches and updates are applied or compliant with policies. Bandwidth metrics cannot detect unpatched systems or assess vulnerability remediation.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects systems from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus protection is critical, but it does not verify patch deployment or the timeliness of software updates. Malware protection complements patching, but does not provide evidence of patch management compliance.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates employees on safe computing practices and organizational policies. Awareness reduces the likelihood of human error but cannot technically enforce patch application or verify compliance. Training alone does not provide assurance that systems remain up-to-date or secure.
By reviewing patch management policies, update logs, and compliance reports, auditors can ensure that software vulnerabilities are mitigated effectively and that updates are applied according to organizational standards. Logs and compliance reports allow identification of gaps, exceptions, and areas requiring corrective action. Continuous monitoring of patch status combined with periodic audits ensures consistent application and reduces exposure to cyber threats. Effective patch management supports operational integrity, regulatory compliance, and risk management objectives, enabling organizations to maintain secure and reliable IT systems. Reviewing patch management policies, update logs, and compliance reports is the most effective audit procedure for verifying the timely and consistent application of patches. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support security and operational objectives, but do not directly confirm patch compliance. Patch management review provides preventive and detective assurance, mitigates vulnerabilities, and strengthens the IT security posture.
Question 72
Which control is most effective for ensuring that sensitive data is protected when transmitted over public networks?
A) Implementing encryption protocols such as TLS/SSL, VPNs, and secure tunneling with access controls
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing encryption protocols such as TLS/SSL, VPNs, and secure tunneling with access controls is the most effective control for ensuring that sensitive data is protected when transmitted over public networks. Data transmitted across public networks, including the internet or shared communication infrastructures, is vulnerable to interception, eavesdropping, man-in-the-middle attacks, and unauthorized access. Encryption ensures that data is converted into unreadable ciphertext during transmission, and only authorized recipients with decryption keys can access the information. Protocols such as TLS/SSL secure web traffic, email transmissions, and application communications, while VPNs provide secure tunnels for remote users to access internal resources. Secure tunneling further encapsulates data and provides integrity checks, preventing modification or tampering. Access controls ensure that only authorized users can establish encrypted connections, preventing unauthorized interception or disclosure. Auditors can review encryption configurations, VPN usage logs, and access controls to verify compliance and effectiveness. This control provides preventive assurance by protecting data from interception and detective assurance by logging attempts to bypass security measures. Encryption and secure tunneling also support regulatory compliance, including GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and ISO 27001, which mandate the protection of sensitive information during transmission. Proper configuration, monitoring, and testing of encryption protocols reduce risks associated with data leakage, insider threats, and external attacks, enhancing trust in data communication.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic anomalies. While operationally useful, bandwidth monitoring does not secure data transmitted over public networks. It cannot prevent interception, ensure encryption, or provide evidence of secure transmission practices.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects devices from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions support device security but do not encrypt data or prevent unauthorized access during transmission. Malware protection complements secure communication but does not replace encryption or tunneling.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates employees about secure transmission practices, phishing, and policy compliance. Awareness reduces human error, but cannot technically enforce encryption or verify that data in transit is secure. Training alone cannot prevent unauthorized interception or tampering.
By implementing TLS/SSL, VPNs, secure tunneling, and access controls, organizations ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of data transmitted over public networks. Logs and audit trails provide verifiable evidence of secure communication practices. Regular review of encryption protocols and VPN configurations ensures effectiveness against emerging threats and evolving business requirements. This integrated approach protects sensitive data, reduces regulatory risk, and maintains operational and customer trust.
Implementing encryption protocols such as TLS/SSL, VPNs, and secure tunneling with access controls is the most effective control for protecting sensitive data over public networks. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support security and operational objectives, but do not technically enforce secure transmission. Encryption and access controls provide preventive and detective assurance, regulatory compliance, and secure communication.
Question 73
Which control is most effective for ensuring that third-party service providers comply with the organization’s information security requirements?
A) Implementing contractual agreements with security requirements, periodic audits, and monitoring
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing contractual agreements with security requirements, periodic audits, and monitoring is the most effective control for ensuring that third-party service providers comply with the organization’s information security requirements. Organizations increasingly rely on third-party vendors to provide critical services such as cloud hosting, data processing, payment processing, and IT support. Without proper oversight, third-party providers can introduce security risks, including data breaches, unauthorized access, non-compliance with regulations, or operational disruptions. Contractual agreements, often referred to as service level agreements (SLAs) or security addenda, define expectations regarding security controls, data handling procedures, incident reporting, access restrictions, and compliance with regulatory frameworks such as GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS. These agreements establish accountability and provide a legally enforceable framework for security responsibilities. Periodic audits enable the organization to independently verify that the service provider adheres to the agreed-upon requirements. Audits may include reviewing policies, procedures, controls, and evidence of security practices. Continuous monitoring, including review of security reports, access logs, or vulnerability assessments, allows for proactive detection of potential risks or deviations from contractual obligations. This combination of contractual enforcement, audit, and monitoring provides preventive assurance by defining expectations and ensuring compliance, and detective assurance by identifying issues before they escalate into security incidents. Effective oversight of third-party providers protects sensitive data, supports regulatory compliance, and mitigates operational and reputational risks associated with external dependencies.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic patterns. While it provides operational insight and may help identify performance anomalies, bandwidth monitoring does not ensure that third-party providers comply with security requirements. It cannot verify adherence to contractual obligations, enforce security policies, or detect data mishandling by vendors.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects systems from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Endpoint protection is important for internal security, but it does not control or monitor the activities of third-party providers. Antivirus scanning complements security measures but cannot enforce contractual or regulatory compliance for external vendors.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates employees about organizational policies, acceptable use, and potential security risks. Training increases awareness of third-party risks but does not technically enforce compliance by external providers or provide verifiable audit evidence. Awareness alone is insufficient to mitigate risks posed by third-party relationships.
By implementing contractual agreements, conducting periodic audits, and monitoring service provider activities, organizations can ensure that vendors maintain adequate security standards and operate in compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements. Auditors can review contract clauses, audit results, and monitoring logs to verify effectiveness and accountability. Any discrepancies can trigger corrective actions, renegotiation of terms, or termination of agreements. Continuous oversight ensures that risks associated with third-party access, data handling, and service delivery are minimized, protecting both the organization and its stakeholders. Regular evaluation and refinement of contractual and monitoring practices maintain alignment with evolving threats, technology, and compliance requirements.
Implementing contractual agreements with security requirements, periodic audits, and monitoring is the most effective control for ensuring third-party compliance with organizational information security standards. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or internal security objectives but do not enforce external compliance. Contractual enforcement combined with audits and monitoring provides preventive and detective assurance, reduces third-party risk, and supports regulatory compliance.
Question 74
Which audit procedure is most effective for verifying that encryption keys are properly managed throughout their lifecycle?
A) Reviewing key management policies, generation, distribution, rotation, storage, and retirement procedures
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Reviewing key management policies, generation, distribution, rotation, storage, and retirement procedures is the most effective audit procedure for verifying that encryption keys are properly managed throughout their lifecycle. Encryption is essential for protecting sensitive data, ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and regulatory compliance. The security of encrypted data is only as strong as the management of encryption keys, which must be protected against unauthorized access, compromise, or misuse. Key management policies define roles, responsibilities, procedures, and security requirements for key lifecycle management, including key generation, distribution, rotation, backup, storage, and retirement. Proper generation ensures keys are strong, unpredictable, and cryptographically secure. Distribution must be controlled to ensure only authorized users receive the key securely. Key rotation mitigates the risk of compromise, ensuring old keys are replaced systematically, while storage procedures protect keys from theft or unauthorized use. Retirement or destruction of keys ensures that obsolete keys cannot be used to decrypt sensitive data. Auditors review policies, key generation logs, distribution mechanisms, rotation schedules, and storage and retirement procedures to verify compliance with security requirements and industry best practices. This audit procedure provides preventive assurance by confirming that keys are properly protected and managed and detective assurance by identifying gaps, inconsistencies, or unauthorized access to encryption keys. Effective key management supports compliance with standards such as ISO 27001, PCI DSS, HIPAA, and NIST guidelines, ensuring that encryption remains effective in protecting sensitive information.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic patterns. While operationally useful, bandwidth monitoring does not verify proper key management or secure encryption practices. It cannot ensure that keys are generated, stored, rotated, or retired in accordance with organizational policies.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects devices from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus solutions help maintain system integrity, but do not control or verify encryption key management. Malware prevention complements encryption controls but cannot replace lifecycle management or auditing procedures.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates staff on security policies, encryption principles, and acceptable use. Awareness reduces the likelihood of accidental key mishandling but does not enforce policies, secure storage, rotation, or retirement practices. Training alone cannot provide evidence of compliance or mitigate unauthorized access to keys.
By reviewing key management policies, procedures, and activities across the key lifecycle, auditors ensure that encryption keys are appropriately generated, distributed, rotated, stored, and retired. This approach prevents unauthorized access, minimizes the risk of key compromise, and maintains encryption effectiveness. Documentation of key management activities provides audit evidence, supports regulatory compliance, and enables forensic investigations if required. Periodic review and testing of key management procedures ensure continued effectiveness against evolving threats and operational requirements, reinforcing organizational security posture.
Reviewing key management policies, generation, distribution, rotation, storage, and retirement procedures is the most effective audit procedure for verifying proper encryption key management. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or internal security objectives, but do not control key management. Proper key lifecycle management provides preventive and detective assurance, maintains encryption effectiveness, and ensures compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
Question 75
Which control is most effective for preventing unauthorized changes to network device configurations?
A) Implementing configuration management, access controls, logging, and periodic review for network devices
B) Monitoring network bandwidth usage
C) Performing endpoint antivirus scans
D) Conducting annual security awareness training
Answer: A
Explanation:
Implementing configuration management, access controls, logging, and periodic review for network devices is the most effective control for preventing unauthorized changes to network device configurations. Network devices such as routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers are critical for connectivity, security, and performance. Unauthorized configuration changes can lead to network outages, security breaches, data leakage, or compliance violations. Configuration management establishes a baseline configuration for each device, defining standard settings and parameters to ensure consistency, security, and operational reliability. Access controls enforce the principle of least privilege, ensuring only authorized personnel can make changes to configurations. Logging captures all configuration changes, including the identity of the person making the change, the date and time, and the nature of the modification. Periodic review compares actual configurations to the baseline to detect unauthorized or inadvertent changes. Auditors review logs, access records, and change documentation to verify compliance and effectiveness. This control provides preventive assurance by limiting unauthorized modifications and detective assurance by identifying deviations from approved configurations. Effective configuration management supports operational stability, security, and regulatory compliance, including PCI DSS, ISO 27001, and NIST guidelines. Regular updates, monitoring, and review ensure that network devices remain secure, optimized, and resilient to attacks or misconfigurations.
Monitoring network bandwidth usage evaluates throughput, latency, and traffic patterns. While useful for detecting congestion or anomalies, bandwidth monitoring does not prevent unauthorized configuration changes or ensure that devices are compliant with baseline settings.
Performing endpoint antivirus scans protects systems from malware, ransomware, and viruses. Antivirus protection helps maintain system integrity, but cannot enforce access controls, manage configurations, or detect unauthorized changes to network devices. Malware prevention complements configuration management but does not replace it.
Conducting annual security awareness training educates personnel about policies, security practices, and acceptable use. Awareness reduces errors and potential misconfigurations but cannot technically enforce access controls, logging, or configuration reviews. Training alone is insufficient to maintain network device security.
By implementing configuration management, access controls, logging, and periodic reviews, organizations ensure that network devices operate securely, consistently, and reliably. Auditors can verify configuration baselines, detect unauthorized modifications, and ensure adherence to policies. Documentation of changes, access logs, and review findings supports accountability, forensic investigation, and regulatory compliance. Regular evaluation and refinement of processes ensure that configuration management remains effective in mitigating evolving network risks.
Implementing configuration management, access controls, logging, and periodic review for network devices is the most effective control for preventing unauthorized changes. Network monitoring, antivirus scanning, and awareness training support operational or security objectives but do not control device configurations. Configuration management provides preventive and detective assurance, operational reliability, and compliance with security standards.