CISM Information Security Program Practice Question
An organization's information security program recently experienced a ransomware attack that encrypted critical data. Which of the following program components should be improved first to prevent recurrence?
⚠ Common exam trap
Test-takers frequently choose 'Develop an incident response plan' (A) because it sounds proactive, but the question asks for the component to improve first to *prevent recurrence*, and without recoverable backups, the organization remains vulnerable to the same data-loss impact regardless of the plan.
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
✓
Implement a robust backup and recovery process with offline copies.
While all options are valid security measures, the immediate priority after a ransomware attack that has already encrypted critical data is to ensure data resilience. A robust backup and recovery process with offline copies (e.g., immutable snapshots or air-gapped tape backups) directly addresses the core impact of ransomware by enabling restoration without paying the ransom. Without recoverable backups, even the best incident response plan or training cannot undo the encryption.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Develop an incident response plan specific to ransomware.
Why it's wrong here
A plan is important but focuses on response, not prevention.
- ✗
Conduct additional security awareness training on phishing.
Why it's wrong here
Training reduces risk but may not be sufficient as a sole improvement.
- ✓
Implement a robust backup and recovery process with offline copies.
Why this is correct
Effective backups ensure data can be restored without paying ransom.
- ✗
Enhance network segmentation to isolate critical systems.
Why it's wrong here
Segmentation helps contain but does not prevent initial compromise.
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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.