easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CAS-004 Practice Question: Wants to ensure that its third-party vendors…
An organization wants to ensure that its third-party vendors comply with the company's security policies. Which of the following is the MOST effective method?
⚠ Common exam trap
The CAS-004 exam often tests the misconception that a one-time certification or a technical test like a penetration test is sufficient to ensure ongoing compliance, when in reality, continuous contractual obligations and independent audits are required to enforce and verify policy adherence over time.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Include security requirements in contracts and conduct periodic audits
Including security requirements in contracts and conducting periodic audits is the most effective method because it creates a legally binding obligation for vendors to adhere to the organization's security policies, and audits provide direct, verifiable evidence of compliance. Unlike self-assessments or certifications, audits allow the organization to actively inspect controls, configurations, and processes, ensuring ongoing adherence rather than relying on a point-in-time assertion. This approach aligns with the NIST SP 800-53 continuous monitoring framework and is a core principle of third-party risk management (TPRM) in the CAS-004 domain.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Include security requirements in contracts and conduct periodic audits
Why this is correct
Legally binding and verifiable
- ✗
Require vendors to obtain ISO 27001 certification
Why it's wrong here
Certification does not guarantee compliance
- ✗
Send annual self-assessment questionnaires
Why it's wrong here
Self-reported and may not be accurate
- ✗
Perform quarterly penetration tests on vendor networks
Why it's wrong here
Narrow scope and not continuous
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CAS-005 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CAS-005 exam.