Information Security and Assurance (C725)

Correct Answer

B. Proper Key Management decreases the threat of unauthorized decryption.

Explanation

Proper key management is crucial in cryptography because it ensures that encryption keys are securely generated, stored, and distributed. Effective key management minimizes the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data by ensuring that keys are kept secure and used appropriately. Without proper key management, even the strongest encryption algorithm can be compromised if an attacker gains access to the keys.

Why other options are wrong

A. Proper Key Management increases the strength of encryption algorithms.

Proper key management does not inherently increase the strength of the encryption algorithm itself. The strength of an encryption algorithm is determined by factors like key length and the cryptographic method used, not by how the keys are managed. Key management ensures that keys are used securely, but it does not modify the algorithm's strength.

C. Proper Key Management decreases the threat of a successful brute force attack.

Brute force attacks target the encryption algorithm by attempting to guess the encryption key. Proper key management does not directly affect the success of a brute force attack, as the algorithm's strength (such as key length) determines how resistant it is to such attacks. However, key management can prevent attackers from gaining access to keys, which would prevent them from even attempting a brute force attack.

D. Proper Key Management increases the key space of an encryption algorithm.

Key management does not change the key space (the total number of possible keys) of an encryption algorithm. The key space is determined by the algorithm and key length, while key management ensures that the keys are securely handled and distributed.

Correct Answer

D. Implementing access control measures

Explanation

Risk analysis in Information Assurance involves identifying data sensitivity, assessing threats and vulnerabilities, and determining the value of systems and information. However, implementing access control measures is part of risk mitigation, not the analysis phase. While important for overall security, access control is not directly involved in the initial risk analysis process, which focuses on identifying risks and their potential impact.

Why other options are wrong

A. Identifying the sensitivity of data

This is a key part of risk analysis. Knowing how sensitive the data is helps in determining the potential impact of a breach or loss. Sensitivity levels guide the prioritization of protective measures.

B. Assessing threats and vulnerabilities

This is a core component of risk analysis. Identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities helps in understanding the risk landscape and enables the organization to prepare for possible security incidents.

C. Determining the value of systems and information

Determining the value of systems and information is essential for risk analysis. It helps in assessing the impact of risks and prioritizing the resources needed to protect the most critical assets.

Correct Answer

B. Protect, detect, and recover

Explanation

The three main functions of a contingency plan in information assurance are to protect, detect, and recover. The plan ensures that the organization's systems and data are protected from threats, detects any incidents that may occur, and outlines the steps to recover critical systems and services after an incident. These functions help ensure that an organization can respond to disruptions and minimize damage, allowing for a return to normal operations as quickly as possible.

Why other options are wrong

A. Prevent, monitor, and respond

While prevention, monitoring, and response are important aspects of overall cybersecurity, they are not the three main functions of a contingency plan. A contingency plan specifically focuses on protection, detection, and recovery during or after an incident.

C. Assess, implement, and evaluate

This set of functions is more related to the overall risk management process or security framework rather than the specific focus of a contingency plan. While these are important for broader information assurance, the contingency plan's core functions revolve around protection, detection, and recovery.

D. Plan, execute, and review

Although planning, executing, and reviewing are integral to the development of any security or business strategy, these functions do not directly represent the core focus of a contingency plan, which is primarily concerned with protecting, detecting, and recovering from incidents.

Correct Answer

A. To avoid penalties and ensure operational efficiency

Explanation

Adhering to both federal and state laws in information security compliance is crucial to avoid significant penalties and legal repercussions. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, legal actions, or reputational damage. Additionally, following these laws ensures that the organization maintains smooth operations, avoiding disruptions that could arise from non-compliance, such as audits or legal conflicts. Compliance with applicable regulations also provides a framework for managing information security in a way that meets legal requirements, safeguarding the organization from potential risks.

Why other options are wrong

B. To maintain competitive advantage and market share

While complying with federal and state laws may indirectly support a competitive advantage by building trust with customers and stakeholders, the primary reason to comply is to avoid legal consequences. Market share is typically influenced by many other factors beyond compliance with laws.

C. To enhance employee satisfaction and retention

Employee satisfaction and retention may benefit from a well-managed organization, but this is not the primary reason for adhering to information security laws. The main objective is to meet legal obligations and prevent legal consequences rather than focusing on employee morale.

D. To comply with industry standards and best practices

Although adhering to industry standards and best practices is important, this is a separate concern from complying with federal and state laws. Industry standards help in guiding operations but do not necessarily cover all legal obligations that may be enforced by federal and state regulations.

Correct Answer

C. Data storage, access, and transmission

Explanation

The key components involved in handling data within a security framework are data storage, access, and transmission. These elements are essential to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. Data storage ensures secure retention, access defines who can interact with the data, and transmission ensures that data is securely sent over networks. Together, these components create a framework for protecting data through its entire lifecycle.

Why other options are wrong

A. Data storage, access, and deletion

While deletion is an important component, it is not as critical as transmission in a comprehensive security framework. Deletion typically occurs at the end of the data lifecycle, whereas access and transmission are continuous throughout the data's existence.

B. Data encryption, transmission, and backup

Although encryption and backup are critical components of data protection, this option does not include data access, which is crucial in security frameworks to regulate who can interact with the data.

D. Data collection, analysis, and reporting

These components are more related to data analysis and decision-making processes rather than the core aspects of data security. They do not directly address the security of data in storage, access, or transmission.

Correct Answer

B. To protect against data loss from primary site disasters

Explanation

The primary purpose of off-site backups is to protect data in case of disasters at the primary site, such as fires, floods, or cyberattacks. Storing backups off-site ensures that even if the primary location is compromised, the organization can still recover its data from a secure, remote location. This redundancy helps maintain business continuity and minimizes the risk of permanent data loss.

Why other options are wrong

A. To enhance data encryption methods

Off-site backups do not inherently enhance data encryption methods. While data stored off-site can be encrypted for security, the primary purpose of off-site backups is disaster recovery, not encryption enhancement.

C. To increase the speed of data retrieval

Off-site backups are not intended to increase the speed of data retrieval. In fact, retrieving data from off-site backups may take longer compared to local backups due to physical or network transfer limitations. The focus is on data protection, not retrieval speed.

D. To facilitate easier access for all employees

Off-site backups are not designed for easy employee access. They are intended for disaster recovery and security, with access generally restricted to authorized personnel to prevent unauthorized data exposure.

Correct Answer

B. Conducting regular risk assessments and updating security policies.

Explanation

Conducting regular risk assessments is a critical step in identifying potential vulnerabilities in the telecommunications infrastructure. By regularly assessing risks and updating security policies, the company can ensure that its security measures are aligned with current threats and technological advancements. These assessments help identify areas for improvement and allow the company to implement controls that address any weaknesses. Regular updates to security policies ensure that they remain effective in protecting data integrity, confidentiality, and availability.

Why other options are wrong

A. Implementing a new user interface for communication tools.

This option does not address the core security issues related to the data breach. While improving the user interface may enhance usability, it does not directly address the need for strong security measures to protect the integrity and confidentiality of the data.

C. Increasing the number of employees in the IT department.

While having a larger IT team might provide more resources, it does not automatically improve security. The key to enhancing security is effective strategy and implementation of controls, not just increasing headcount. Security policies and risk management practices are more important for mitigating data breaches.

D. Switching to a different telecommunications provider.

Changing the telecommunications provider may not necessarily solve the underlying security issues. It is more effective to address the specific vulnerabilities within the existing infrastructure, such as by improving encryption, monitoring, and access controls, rather than switching providers.

Correct Answer

C. To bring residual risk in alignment with risk appetite.

Explanation

The primary goal of information security is to manage and reduce risks to an acceptable level, ensuring that the residual risks align with the organization's risk appetite. Risk appetite refers to the level of risk an organization is willing to take in pursuit of its objectives. Rather than aiming to eliminate all risks, which is unrealistic, the goal is to mitigate and manage risks to a level that is consistent with the organization's defined risk tolerance.

Why other options are wrong

A. To eliminate all risks completely.

Eliminating all risks is impossible because new risks emerge constantly, and some level of risk is inherent in any system. The goal is not to completely eliminate risks but to manage them effectively within acceptable limits.

B. To align risk appetite with risk tolerance.

Risk appetite and risk tolerance are related but not the primary goal of information security. The focus is on managing residual risks and ensuring they are within acceptable limits rather than just aligning appetite and tolerance.

D. To maximize accessibility at all costs.

While accessibility is important in information security, it cannot be prioritized "at all costs." Security must balance accessibility with confidentiality and integrity, ensuring that systems are protected without sacrificing their primary functions.

Correct Answer

C. It safeguards sensitive information from being disclosed, thus preventing security breaches.

Explanation

Operations Security (OpSec) is crucial because it involves protecting sensitive information throughout its lifecycle, ensuring it is not exposed to unauthorized individuals. This includes safeguarding critical data during daily operations, mitigating risks like data leaks, insider threats, or external breaches, and preventing disclosure that could lead to security incidents. OpSec takes a holistic approach, ensuring that information, regardless of its format or usage, remains secure.

Why other options are wrong

A. It helps in developing new software applications.

This is incorrect. While operations security is integral to the overall security strategy, it is not specifically focused on developing new software applications. It primarily aims to safeguard operational processes and sensitive data, not development efforts.

B. It prevents unauthorized access to physical locations.

Preventing unauthorized access to physical locations is a responsibility of physical security, not operations security. OpSec focuses more on information protection and the operational aspects that affect data confidentiality and integrity.

D. It focuses solely on employee training and awareness.

While employee training and awareness are part of OpSec, it is not the sole focus. Operations Security encompasses various areas, including data classification, system monitoring, incident response, and more, beyond just training.