CISA Protection of Information Assets Practice Question
An IS auditor is reviewing the access recertification process for a financial institution. The process requires users and their managers to confirm access rights quarterly. During the review, the auditor finds that recertifications are consistently completed late, with an average delay of 45 days. Additionally, terminated employees' access is not always removed promptly, and there are no compensating controls. Which of the following is the MOST significant risk arising from these findings?
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
✓
Higher probability of unauthorized access to sensitive information
The greatest risk from delayed access recertification and late removal of terminated employees is that unauthorized users may retain access, leading to potential data breaches or fraudulent activities. While audit trails and policy violations are concerns, the primary risk is unauthorized access.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Increased likelihood of audit findings for non-compliance with internal policies
Why it's wrong here
Although policy compliance is relevant, the most significant risk is unauthorized access.
- ✗
Difficulty in tracking user access history
Why it's wrong here
Tracking history is important but not the most significant risk compared to unauthorized access.
- ✓
Higher probability of unauthorized access to sensitive information
Why this is correct
Delayed recertification and failure to promptly remove terminated employees' access increase the risk of unauthorized access.
- ✗
Potential loss of audit trails for access changes
Why it's wrong here
Audit trail loss is a secondary concern; the primary risk is unauthorized access.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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