CISM Information Security Program Practice Question
A large financial institution is updating its information security program to align with a new regulatory framework. The program currently has a decentralized governance model. Which of the following is the MOST significant risk of maintaining a decentralized model?
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
✓
Inconsistent security levels across business units
Decentralized governance leads to inconsistent security levels across business units, which is a major regulatory and risk concern. Option A is possible but less critical. Option C may increase but is a consequence. Option D may be slower but inconsistent security is more fundamental.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Slower incident response
Why it's wrong here
Slower response is possible but less impactful than inconsistent security.
- ✓
Inconsistent security levels across business units
Why this is correct
Inconsistency can create security gaps and regulatory non-compliance.
- ✗
Higher cost of compliance
Why it's wrong here
Higher cost is a consequence, not the primary risk to security posture.
- ✗
Duplication of controls
Why it's wrong here
Duplication is inefficient but not the most significant risk.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CISM 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 CISM exam.