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CISA Practice Question: Is implementing a data classification policy and…
An organization is implementing a data classification policy and needs to assign ownership for sensitive data. Which of the following is the most appropriate role to assign as the data owner?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many candidates confuse the data owner (business accountability) with the data custodian (technical implementation) or the data steward (compliance oversight), leading candidates to incorrectly select the CISO or system administrator.
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
✓
The head of the business unit that creates and uses the data
The data owner is the person or entity with ultimate accountability for a specific dataset, typically a senior business manager who understands the data's value, legal requirements, and usage context. In this scenario, the head of the business unit that creates and uses the data is best positioned to classify the data, authorize access, and ensure compliance with the data classification policy, as they have direct business responsibility for the data's lifecycle.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
The chief information security officer (CISO)
Why it's wrong here
The CISO is responsible for security strategy, not data ownership.
- ✗
The system administrator of the database
Why it's wrong here
System administrators manage systems, not data ownership.
- ✓
The head of the business unit that creates and uses the data
Why this is correct
The business unit head is accountable for the data's classification and protection.
- ✗
The legal counsel responsible for compliance
Why it's wrong here
Legal counsel advises on compliance but does not own data.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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