Exam CISM topic 1 question 236 discussion

The most effective way to minimize the chance of an inadvertent disclosure of confidential information is by following the principle of least privilege. The principle of least privilege (POLP) is a security principle that limits the access to sensitive data and systems to only those who need it to perform their job. By implementing least privilege, an organization can reduce the risk of accidental data breaches caused by employees who have access to sensitive information they do not need.

need to classify data for prevention.

I was tempted to choose B, but chose A instead because data classification RULES give guidance on the information handling procedures, including principle of least privilege (e.g., for confidential labelled information).

B for me, Data classification rules can be applied as per A, however the question is asking the MOST effective way to minimize it.

Inadvertent means without knowledge or intent, a mistake. Correct classification would guide against that

B. Following the principle of least privilege The principle of least privilege (PoLP) is a fundamental concept in cybersecurity and information security that restricts users and systems to the minimum level of access or permissions necessary to perform their job functions. By implementing the principle of least privilege, you limit the potential for inadvertent disclosure of confidential information because users and systems only have access to what they absolutely need to do their work. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access or exposure of sensitive data.

By clearly defining and labeling confidential information, users are more likely to handle it appropriately and avoid inadvertent disclosure.

Applying data classification rules is the most effective measure to minimize the chance of inadvertent disclosure of confidential information. Data classification helps in identifying and labeling sensitive information, making it easier to apply appropriate access controls and protection mechanisms. This ensures that only authorized individuals have access to confidential data and helps prevent unintentional disclosures. While the other options (B, C, D) also contribute to overall security, data classification specifically addresses the identification and protection of sensitive information.

The key word here is "inadvertent" which is "unknowingly". So if employees are unkowingly disclosing confidential information, the main reason is their lack of knowledge that the information is confidential. If data classification rules are applied, employees will have a clear knowledge of what is confidential and how data is classified there by reducing the risk of disclosing confidential information. A. Applying data classification rules. Least privilege is a reasonable option but it will not have the same effect as applying data classification rules. Least privilege only limits the employees access but it still doesn't mitigate the problem of lack of knowledge within their area of access.

Per the CISM manual, "The unintended disclosure of sensitive information can have many ramifications that may be difficult to determine with any precision. The data owner is typically the best source of for determining the potential consequences of "data leakage" and is normally the individual determining the classification level for data. The classification level will subsequently provide the basis for protection efforts and access control. Most enterprises will use three or four sensitivity and criticality classifications, such as confidential, for internal use and public." ... and ... "Information asset classification is required to determine the relative sensitivity and criticality of information assets, sometimes referred to collectively as business value. Criticality is determined by the impact on the enterprise as a result of the loss of an asset (i.e., how important the asset is to the business). Sensitivity is based on the potential damage to the enterprise as a result of unauthorized disclosure. It provides the basis for protection efforts, business continuity planning and user access control."

B. Following the principle of least privilege The principle of least privilege (PoLP) is a fundamental concept in cybersecurity and information security that restricts users and systems to the minimum level of access or permissions necessary to perform their job functions. By implementing the principle of least privilege, you limit the potential for inadvertent disclosure of confidential information because users and systems only have access to what they absolutely need to do their work. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access or exposure of sensitive data.

A is not correct, because the question itself mention that it is Confidential information; then why again Classification.

A. Applying data classification rules

The keywords are "inadvertent disclosure" and the only one that addresses this is (A) Applying data classification rules cause that is the only one that provides guidance. Rationale: (B.) Following the principle of least privilege can ensure that only the correct people have access to that data, but if they are phished they can inadvertently give that data to someone else. Data classification on the other hand can inform users not to send and can be used inside of DLP tools to block certain things from being leaked based on those classification levels. (C). Restricting the use of removable media is incorrect cause data could be leaked through email, text messaging or even over the phone. What is needed is the guidance provided by classification. (D.) Enforcing penalties for security policy violations is incorrect cause it is unfair to penalize someone without giving guidance.

A. Applying data classification rules is the most effective way to minimize the chance of inadvertent disclosure of confidential information. Data classification allows organizations to categorize their data based on its value, sensitivity, and importance. By applying data classification rules, employees are made aware of the level of confidentiality associated with the data they are handling, and they are more likely to take the appropriate precautions to protect it.

the answer is A. You need to classify the data before anything else can be done