ISC2 CISSP Practice Test

The correct answer is the data owner. This role is accountable for determining how data should be classified, how it is handled, and who has access to that data. Unlike data custodians, who focus on the technical aspects of data management, the owner has the authority to make decisions about data policies and controls. There are distinct responsibilities among the roles involved in the data lifecycle; for example, while data controllers manage processing activities, the ultimate authority lies with the data owner when it comes to defining security practices.

The process of categorizing data is known as data classification. This involves assigning a label to data which informs users and systems how it should be handled according to its sensitivity. Different classifications help guide security protocols, access control, and the implementation of appropriate protective measures. For instance, sensitive information may require stronger access controls and encryption compared to less sensitive data.

Data classification is the systematic approach used to categorize data by its level of sensitivity. This process helps organizations to apply appropriate security measures based on potential risk. In contrast, terms like 'data mapping' or 'data coding' do not encapsulate this concept, as they pertain to organizing or translating data rather than assessing its sensitivity levels.

The correct answer is an effective method that prevents any remnants of the data from being retrievable. Physical destruction that renders media unusable is preferred, but not a listed option. Overwriting data multiple times is a well-known technique that helps eliminate any recoverable instances of the original data. In contrast, options that suggest simple deletion may not adequately address the potential for data recovery through forensic methods. Similarly, methodologies that only involve physical destruction without considering the implications of residual data might still leave recoverable traces.

The data owner is the individual who is ultimately responsible for the data. They have the authority to make decisions regarding data handling, classification, and access. This role includes defining who can access the data and determining what protections are necessary. Other options, like users or custodians, have responsibilities, but they do not have the final authority on data management decisions.

This statement is false because while organizations can develop their own data retention policies, these must align with external regulations and industry standards that dictate minimum retention durations for various types of data. Establishing retention periods without such considerations can expose organizations to legal risks and compliance issues. An effective approach includes analyzing regulatory requirements to inform and shape internal policies.

The correct answer underscores the importance of a comprehensive policy that articulates the specifics of data collection, including what data is collected and for what purposes. This approach is instrumental in adhering to regulations like GDPR and fostering a transparent relationship with individuals. The other options either lack necessary compliance details or suggest practices that promote ambiguity, potentially leading to unethical data usage.

The primary purpose of establishing handling requirements is to ensure that sensitive information is handled appropriately to maintain its integrity, confidentiality, and availability. This includes defining who can access the information, how it should be stored, and the protocols for sharing and disposing of it. Other options may relate to processes but do not capture the comprehensive intent behind handling requirements.

The correct answer emphasizes a systematic approach involving thorough documentation and regular audits for varied asset types. The other options address parts of the process but do not provide a comprehensive strategy for accurate inventory management.

Implementing role-based access controls ensures that individuals are granted access based on their specific job responsibilities, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information. In contrast, requiring users to create complex passwords might enhance security, but it does not restrict access based on roles. Restricting access solely to the IT department does not address the need for appropriate access control for other authorized personnel, and merely conducting access reviews annually may lead to time gaps where unauthorized access could occur.

The team should prioritize collecting a thorough inventory of all resources, as this is essential for identifying what the organization possesses and managing risks associated with those resources. This inventory facilitates compliance with security protocols and helps in identifying any vulnerabilities. The other options, while relevant to security, do not directly address the need for accurate documentation of resources.

Regularly reviewing and updating data entries ensures that inaccuracies are corrected and that obsolete information is removed. This process is essential for maintaining the integrity of the data and ensuring it meets current operational needs. Other choices focus on static data management or retrospective actions rather than proactive maintenance.

Sensitive assets are pieces of information that should be subject to specific handling and protection requirements due to their potential impact if disclosed. Employee salary information typically falls under this category, as it involves personal data that must be safeguarded. In contrast, company-wide announcements, marketing materials, and published historical data are generally not considered sensitive because they do not require the same level of confidentiality or protection.

The correct answer defines where data resides, which is crucial for managing data privacy, compliance, and access control. Knowing the specific location of data helps in implementing appropriate security controls and effectively handling data according to regulations and organizational policies. The other options relate to aspects of data management but do not specifically indicate the concept of data location.

The correct answer is the data owner, as this role encompasses the responsibility for defining how data should be accessed, who can access it, and what protections are to be implemented around it. Other roles, such as custodians and stewards, are tasked with managing the physical storage and administration of the data according to the policies set by the owner, but they do not have the authority to define those policies. Similarly, processors manage the data processing tasks but follow predefined guidelines without authority to set those guidelines, while users primarily interact with the data without control over its management.