CISM Information Security Programme Practice Question
An organization is implementing a security controls framework and needs to prioritize controls for a small business with limited resources. Which implementation group from CIS Controls v8 should be addressed first?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap is assuming a higher implementation group is better or that IG0 exists; candidates must know that IG1 is the starting point for resource-constrained organizations.
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
✓
IG1
CIS Controls v8 defines Implementation Group 1 (IG1) as the foundational set of safeguards for small businesses with limited resources and low-risk data. IG1 represents basic cyber hygiene and should be implemented first to establish a minimum level of security. Therefore, a small business with limited resources should address IG1 first.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
IG2
Why it's wrong here
IG2 targets organisations with moderate resources and dedicated security staff, so a small business cannot sustain its 74 safeguards. It is tempting because IG2 balances rigour with feasibility for growing firms, and would be correct once basic hygiene is mature and additional staff exist.
- ✓
IG1
Why this is correct
IG1 defines essential cyber hygiene safeguards implementable with limited expertise and budget, making it the foundational implementation group. Addressing it first satisfies the small business's resource constraint, as IG2 and IG3 demand greater maturity and staffing.
- ✗
IG3
Why it's wrong here
IG3 assumes mature security programmes with dedicated specialists and enterprise-grade tooling, exceeding a small business's capacity. It is tempting because it offers the strongest protection, and would be correct for organisations handling sensitive data with substantial security budgets and staff.
- ✗
IG0
Why it's wrong here
IG0 does not exist in CIS Controls v8; implementation groups begin at IG1. It is tempting as a presumed baseline tier, but selecting it signals unfamiliarity with the framework, and IG1 is the defined starting point for small businesses with limited resources.
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official ISACA exam blueprint
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