Certified Information Security Manager Exam (CISM) - Isaca

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Sample CISM Exam Questions & Explanations

Practice with real question formats, multiple choice options, and detailed answer explanations for Isaca CISM.

Question #1 Verified Q&A
The MAIN benefit of implementing a data loss prevention (DLP) solution is to:
A eliminate the risk of data loss.
B enhance the organization's antivirus controls.
C complement the organization's detective controls.
D reduce the need for a security awareness program.
Correct Answer: complement the organization's detective controls.
Explanation:
A data loss prevention (DLP) solution is a type of detective control that monitors and prevents unauthorized transmission or leakage of sensitive data from the organization. A DLP solution can enhance the organization’s antivirus controls by detecting and blocking malicious code that attempts to exfiltrate data, but this is not its main benefit. A DLP solution cannot eliminate the risk of data loss, as there may be other sources of data loss that are not covered by the DLP solution, such as physical theft, accidental deletion, or natural disasters. A DLP solution also does not reduce the need<br />
for a security awareness program, as human factors are often the root cause of data loss incidents. A<br />
security awareness program can educate and motivate employees to follow security policies and best practices, and to report any suspicious or anomalous activities. Reference = ISACA, CISM Review Manual, 16th Edition, 2020, page 79. ISACA, CISM Review Questions, Answers & Explanations Database, 12th Edition, 2020, question ID 1003.
Question #2 Verified Q&A
During which of the following phases should an incident response team document actions required to remove the threat that caused the incident?
A Containment
B Post-incident review
C Eradication
D Identification
Correct Answer: Eradication
Explanation:
The eradication phase of incident response is the stage where the incident response team documents and performs the actions required to remove the threat that caused the incident1. This phase involves identifying and eliminating the root cause of the incident, such as malware, compromised accounts, unauthorized access, or misconfigured systems2. The eradication phase also involves restoring the affected systems to a secure state, deleting any malicious files or artifacts, and verifying that the threat has been completely removed2. The eradication phase is the first step in returning a compromised environment to its proper state2. The other phases of incident response are: Preparation: The phase where the incident response team prepares for potential incidents by defining roles, responsibilities, procedures, tools, and resources1. Detection and analysis: The phase where the incident response team identifies and prioritizes the incidents based on their severity, impact, and urgency1. Containment: The phase where the incident response team isolates the affected systems or networks to prevent the spread of the incident and minimize the damage1. Recovery: The phase where the incident response team restores the normal operations of the systems or networks, and implements any necessary changes or improvements to prevent recurrence1. Post-incident review: The phase where the incident response team evaluates the effectiveness of the incident response process, identifies the lessons learned, and provides recommendations for<br />
improvement1. Reference = 3: Critical Incident Stress Management: CISM Implementation<br />
Guidelines 2: What is the Eradication Phase of Incident Response? - RSI Security 1: Incident Response Models - ISACA
Question #3 Verified Q&A
Which of the following is PRIMARILY determined by asset classification?
A Priority for asset replacement
B Level of protection required for assets
C Insurance coverage required for assets
D Replacement cost of assets
Correct Answer: Level of protection required for assets
Explanation:
Asset classification is the process of assigning a value to information assets based on their importance to the organization and the potential impact of their compromise, loss or damage1. Asset classification helps to determine the level of protection required for assets, which is proportional to their value and sensitivity2. Asset classification also facilitates risk assessment and management, as well as compliance with legal, regulatory and contractual requirements3. Asset classification does not primarily determine the insurance coverage, priority for replacement, or replacement cost of assets, as these factors depend on other criteria such as risk appetite, business impact, availability and market value4. Reference = 1: CISM - Information Asset Classification<br />
<br />
Flashcards | Quizlet 2: CISM Exam Content Outline | CISM Certification | ISACA 3: CIS Control 1: Inventory and Control of Enterprise Assets 4: CISSP versus the CISM Certification | ISC2
Question #4 Verified Q&A
ACISO learns that a third-party service provider did not notify the organization of a data breach that affected the service provider's data center. Which of the following should the CISO do FIRST?
A Request an independent review of the provider's data center.
B Notify affected customers of the data breach.
C Recommend canceling the outsourcing contract.
D Determine the extent of the impact to the organization.
Correct Answer: Determine the extent of the impact to the organization.
Explanation:
The CISO should first determine the extent of the impact to the organization by assessing the nature and scope of the data breach, the type and sensitivity of the data involved, the potential harm to the organization and its customers, and the legal and contractual obligations of the organization and the<br />
service provider. This will help the CISO to prioritize the appropriate actions and resources to<br />
respond to the incident and mitigate the risks. The other options are possible actions that the CISO may take after determining the impact, depending on the circumstances and the outcomes of the<br />
investigation. Reference = CISM Review Manual 15th Edition, page 2231; CISM Review Questions,<br />
Answers & Explanations Database - 12 Month Subscription, Question ID: 1030
Question #5 Verified Q&A
An information security manager developing an incident response plan MUST ensure it includes:
A a business impact analysis (BIA).
B criteria for escalation.
C an inventory of critical data.
D critical infrastructure diagrams.
Correct Answer: criteria for escalation.
Explanation:
An incident response plan is a set of procedures and guidelines that define the roles and responsibilities of the incident response team, the steps to follow in the event of an incident, and the communication and escalation protocols to ensure timely and effective resolution of incidents. One of the essential components of an incident response plan is the criteria for escalation, which specify the conditions and thresholds that trigger the escalation of an incident to a higher level of authority or a different function within the organization. The criteria for escalation may depend on factors such as the severity, impact, duration, scope, and complexity of the incident, as well as the availability and capability of the incident response team. The criteria for escalation help to ensure that incidents are handled by the appropriate personnel, that management is kept informed and involved, and that the necessary resources and support are provided to resolve the incident. Reference = https://blog.exigence.io/a-practical-approach-to-incident-management-escalation https://www.uc.edu/content/dam/uc/infosec/docs/Guidelines/Information_Security_Incident_Resp onse_Escalation_Guideline.pdf

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Our CISM (Certified Information Security Manager Exam) practice question bank currently includes 1044 verified questions with comprehensive explanations.
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