CRISC Risk Response and Reporting Practice Question
An organization’s continuous monitoring program includes automated vulnerability scanning and log review. Which of the following is a Key Risk Indicator (KRI) that would BEST signal an increasing risk of a successful network breach?
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
✓
Spike in failed authentication attempts from external IPs
A KRI should be leading, indicating a change in risk level. A spike in failed authentication attempts often precedes a brute force attack or credential compromise, signaling increased risk of breach.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Average time to patch critical vulnerabilities
Why it's wrong here
This is an indicator of vulnerability risk but not as immediate as a spike in failed attempts.
- ✓
Spike in failed authentication attempts from external IPs
Why this is correct
A spike in failed authentication attempts is a leading indicator of a potential credential stuffing or brute force attack.
- ✗
Number of firewall rule changes per month
Why it's wrong here
This measures change activity, not direct risk of breach.
- ✗
Percentage of systems with up-to-date antivirus signatures
Why it's wrong here
This is a control effectiveness indicator, not a leading KRI for breach.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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