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CRISC Practice Question: Has recently suffered a ransomware attack that…
An organization has recently suffered a ransomware attack that encrypted critical files. During the post-incident review, the risk team is identifying key risk indicators (KRIs) to improve early detection. Which of the following KRIs would be MOST effective in detecting similar attacks in the future?
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
✓
Number of unauthorized remote access attempts.
The most effective KRI for early detection of ransomware because unauthorized remote access attempts are a direct indicator of an ongoing attack or reconnaissance. This metric can signal a breach before encryption occurs. In contrast, Option A (antivirus signature updates) measures a control rather than a risk indicator; Option C (awareness training) is a preventive measure; Option D (patch time) is corrective and not timely for detection.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Frequency of antivirus signature updates.
Why it's wrong here
Updates are preventive, not a real-time detection indicator.
- ✓
Number of unauthorized remote access attempts.
Why this is correct
Direct indicator of possible ransomware entry.
- ✗
Percentage of employees who completed security awareness training.
Why it's wrong here
Training is preventive, not a direct detection metric.
- ✗
Time to patch critical vulnerabilities.
Why it's wrong here
Patching is a corrective control, not a detection KRI.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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