easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
ISC2 CC Practice Question: An organization's security policy requires that…
An organization's security policy requires that all employees change their passwords every 90 days. This is an example of which type of security control?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the distinction between preventive and deterrent controls, where candidates mistakenly classify password policies as deterrent because they 'discourage' sharing, but the key is that password expiration actively blocks access, not just discourages behavior.
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
✓
Preventive control
Password expiration policies, such as requiring a change every 90 days, are classified as preventive controls because they proactively reduce the risk of credential compromise by limiting the window of opportunity for an attacker to use a stolen or guessed password. This control enforces a security baseline before any unauthorized access can occur, directly preventing prolonged use of compromised credentials.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Deterrent control
Why it's wrong here
While it may deter, the main intent is to prevent unauthorized access through periodic changes.
- ✗
Detective control
Why it's wrong here
Password changes do not detect incidents; they are proactive.
- ✓
Preventive control
Why this is correct
Regular password changes help prevent unauthorized access if credentials are stolen.
- ✗
Corrective control
Why it's wrong here
Corrective controls fix issues after detection; password changes are scheduled.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
Security control
A security control is a safeguard or countermeasure designed to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems and data.
Key term
Baseline
A baseline is a documented starting point for the normal performance and behavior of a system, network, or component, used to detect changes and troubleshoot issues.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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