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CISA Practice Question: Which TWO of the following are primary objectives…
Which TWO of the following are primary objectives of a data loss prevention (DLP) strategy?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many candidates confuse DLP's primary objectives (identify, monitor, control) with supporting or adjacent activities like encryption or compliance, leading them to select options A or E instead of the core DLP functions.
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
✓
Identify and classify sensitive data
Identifying and classifying sensitive data is the foundational step in a DLP strategy. Without knowing where sensitive data resides (e.g., PII, PCI, IP), DLP policies cannot accurately detect or prevent unauthorized transfers. Classification enables the DLP system to apply context-aware rules, such as blocking credit card numbers in email attachments or flagging confidential documents uploaded to cloud storage.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Encrypt all data in transit
Why it's wrong here
Encryption is a control, not the objective of DLP; DLP focuses on detection and prevention of unauthorized data movement.
- ✓
Identify and classify sensitive data
Why this is correct
Correct. Understanding what sensitive data exists is fundamental to DLP.
- ✗
Replace all existing security controls
Why it's wrong here
DLP complements other controls, it does not replace them.
- ✓
Monitor and control data movement across endpoints
Why this is correct
Correct. DLP solutions monitor and block unauthorized data transfers.
- ✗
Ensure compliance with all regulations
Why it's wrong here
Compliance is a business driver, but the primary objective of DLP is to protect data, not guarantee compliance.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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