Cisco Cyber Security Practice Exam

What method can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of a risk control measure?

1. Financial audit

2. Employee feedback

3. Review of incident reports

4. Cost-benefit analysis

The correct answer is: Review of incident reports

Reviewing incident reports is a valuable method for evaluating the effectiveness of a risk control measure because it provides concrete data on how well the control has performed in real-world situations. Incident reports contain detailed records of security incidents, including their frequency, severity, and how they were managed. By analyzing these reports, an organization can identify whether the implemented risk control measures successfully mitigated potential threats and reduced the number or impact of incidents. This method allows organizations to track trends over time, assess the adequacy of their controls, and make informed decisions about necessary adjustments. If the number or severity of incidents decreases after implementing a risk control measure, it indicates that the measure is working effectively. Conversely, if the incident reports show no change or an increase in security breaches, it suggests that the risk control may need to be reevaluated or enhanced. In contrast, while financial audits, employee feedback, and cost-benefit analysis can contribute to assessing a broader risk management strategy, they do not directly provide insight into the day-to-day effectiveness of specific risk control measures like incident reports do. Therefore, utilizing incident reports is a practical and evidence-based approach to gauge the effectiveness of security controls within an organization.