Quick Answer
The answer is encryption of the backup data because it is the only control that renders the data unreadable regardless of physical possession. Encryption transforms the backup data into ciphertext using an algorithm and key, ensuring that even if a tape is stolen or lost during transit, the information remains confidential and inaccessible to unauthorized parties. On the CISA exam, this question tests your understanding of defense-in-depth, specifically that physical controls like locks or access logs protect the media, not the data itself. A common trap is choosing offsite storage or physical access controls, but these fail if the tape is intercepted while in transit. Remember the memory tip: “Encrypt the bits, not the box”—physical security guards the container, but encryption guards the content, making it the most effective control for protecting backup tapes from unauthorized access.
This CISA practice question tests your understanding of information systems operations and business resilience. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
An organization wants to ensure that its backup tapes are protected from unauthorized access. Which of the following is the MOST effective control?
Physical locks on the tape library
Why wrong: Physical locks prevent unauthorized physical access but not if tapes are stolen.
Encryption of the backup data
Correct: Encryption renders data unreadable without the key.
Access control lists on the backup server
Why wrong: ACLs protect the server but not tapes offsite.
Offsite storage of tapes
Why wrong: Offsite storage provides geographic separation but does not inherently protect data.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Encryption of the backup data
Encryption protects data confidentiality even if physical security is breached. Physical locks, access controls, and offsite storage are important but do not protect against all threats like theft during transit.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Physical locks on the tape library
Why it's wrong here
Physical locks prevent unauthorized physical access but not if tapes are stolen.
Encryption of the backup data
Why this is correct
Correct: Encryption renders data unreadable without the key.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Access control lists on the backup server
Why it's wrong here
ACLs protect the server but not tapes offsite.
Offsite storage of tapes
Why it's wrong here
Offsite storage provides geographic separation but does not inherently protect data.
Common exam traps
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Detailed technical explanation
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the CISA exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Identify which CISA exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
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FAQ
Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience — This question tests Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Encryption of the backup data — Encryption protects data confidentiality even if physical security is breached. Physical locks, access controls, and offsite storage are important but do not protect against all threats like theft during transit.
Identify which CISA exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
This CISA practice question is part of Courseiva's free ISACA 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 CISA exam.
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