CISM Information Security Program Practice Question
Which is a key component of an information security program?
⚠ Common exam trap
CISM often tests the distinction between governance (policy) and operational controls (technology), trapping candidates who confuse a tactical tool like a firewall or antivirus with the strategic program component that defines the security program's scope and authority.
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
✓
Security policy
A security policy is the foundational component of an information security program because it defines the organization's strategic direction, governance structure, and high-level principles for protecting information assets. Unlike specific technologies (encryption, firewalls, antivirus), the policy establishes the rules, roles, and responsibilities that drive the selection and implementation of all security controls. Without a policy, technical measures lack context, authority, and alignment with business objectives.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Encryption technology
Why it's wrong here
Encryption is a control, not a program component.
- ✗
Firewall
Why it's wrong here
A firewall is a technical control, not a program component.
- ✗
Antivirus software
Why it's wrong here
Antivirus is a specific tool, not a program element.
- ✓
Security policy
Why this is correct
Policies establish the governance framework for the program.
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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.