CRISC IT Risk Assessment Practice Question
An organization implements an intrusion detection system (IDS) to monitor for security incidents. This is an example of which type of control?
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often confuse an IDS with an IPS (Intrusion Prevention System), which is a preventive control because it can actively block traffic, whereas the question specifically asks about an IDS, which is purely detective.
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
✓
Detective
An intrusion detection system (IDS) is a detective control because it monitors network traffic or system activity for signs of malicious behavior or policy violations and generates alerts when such patterns are detected. Unlike preventive controls, an IDS does not block or stop the attack in real time; it only identifies and reports the incident for subsequent investigation and response.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Detective
Why this is correct
IDS detects incidents after they occur.
- ✗
Corrective
Why it's wrong here
Corrective controls respond and recover, e.g., backup.
- ✗
Compensating
Why it's wrong here
Compensating controls are alternatives when primary control is not feasible.
- ✗
Preventive
Why it's wrong here
Preventive controls stop events, e.g., firewalls.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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