ISC2 CC Security Principles Practice Question

According to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics, which principle has the highest priority?

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

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Protect society

The (ISC)² Code of Ethics prioritizes protecting society, the common good, and public safety above all.

Answer analysis

For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.

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Act honorably
Why it's wrong here
Act honorably is the second principle.
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Protect society
Why this is correct
The (ISC)² Code of Ethics canon ordering places the safety and welfare of society first, ahead of duties to principals, the profession, and colleagues. Protecting society therefore holds the highest priority, satisfying the stem's request for the top-ranked principle.
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Advance the profession
Why it's wrong here
Advancing the profession sits fourth in the (ISC)² Code of Ethics canons, so it cannot outrank the protection of society and infrastructure. It is tempting because professional advocacy genuinely matters, and it would be the governing principle when weighing contributions such as mentoring, certification advocacy or knowledge sharing that carry no impact on public safety.
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Provide diligent service
Why it's wrong here
Providing diligent service ranks third in the canons, below the safety of society and the public trust. It is tempting because diligence and competence are core practitioner duties, and this canon would govern when assessing whether an analyst performed contracted work with due care, skill and timely effort absent any conflict with public welfare.

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