CISMP-V9 Questions and Answers

Packet sniffing is a type of network attack that can directly affect the confidentiality of an unencrypted VoIP network. In packet sniffing, an attacker captures data packets as they travel across the network. Since VoIP calls transmit voice data in the form of data packets, an unencrypted VoIP network is particularly vulnerable to this type of attack. The attacker can potentially listen to the conversations or extract sensitive information from these packets. This compromises the confidentiality principle of information security, which aims to protect information from unauthorized disclosure12.

Brute Force Attack (B) and Ransomware © are more related to the integrity and availability of systems rather than confidentiality. Vishing Attack (D) is a form of phishing which involves social engineering over telephone systems but does not directly affect the network’s confidentiality like packet sniffing does.

References :=

• Information Security Management Principles, 3rd Edition1.
• VoIP Hacking: How It Works & How to Protect Your VoIP Phone3.

Static testing is a method where the code is analyzed without being executed. It involves reviewing the code, documentation, and other related artifacts to identify errors at an early stage. Static testing can detect potential issues like syntax errors, variable misuse, and security vulnerabilities. This type of testing is crucial because it helps to find errors before the code is run, which can save time and resources in the development process. It’s typically done through various techniques such as code reviews, walkthroughs, and the use of static analysis tools12.

References :=

• Understanding of static testing and its importance in the software development lifecycle is well-documented in the literature, including the BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles1.
• Further details on static testing methodologies and their application can be found in industry-specific guidelines and best practices2.

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks are a threat to any organization that maintains an online presence. This is because DDoS attacks are designed to overwhelm an organization’s network with traffic, rendering it inaccessible to legitimate users. While cloud service providers, financial sector organizations, and online retail companies can be attractive targets due to their high-profile nature and the critical nature of their services, the reality is that any organization with an online presence can be targeted.This includes small businesses, educational institutions, government agencies, and non-profits. The motivation behind such attacks can vary from financial gain, to disruption of service, to political statements. Therefore, it’s crucial for all organizations to implement robust security measures to mitigate the risk of DDoS attacks.

References: The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles provides a comprehensive understanding of information security management, including the categorization, operation, and effectiveness of controls of different types and characteristics, which would encompass those necessary to defend against DDoS attacks1.

In a virtualized cloud environment, the hypervisor, also known as the virtual machine monitor (VMM), is the software, firmware, or hardware that creates and runs virtual machines. It is responsible for managing the system’s hardware resources so they are distributed efficiently among multiple virtual environments. The hypervisor provides the secure separation between guest machines by ensuring that each guest machine operates independently and is unaware of the other guests’ existence. This isolation prevents one guest from accessing or interfering with another guest’s resources, which is crucial for maintaining security in a multi-tenant environment where multiple virtual machines are hosted on a single physical server.

References: = The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles provides a comprehensive understanding of information security management, including the role of the hypervisor in ensuring secure separation between guest machines in a virtualized environment12.

An organization’s security policy should be a reflection of its own security stance and principles, not tailored to third parties. While it may be informed by third-party requirements, the policy itself should not be amended to suit all third-party contractors. This is because the security policy is meant to establish a clear set of rules and expectations for the organization’s members to maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of its data. It should be defined, approved by management, and communicated to employees and relevant external parties. Amending the policy to suit all third-party contractors could lead to a dilution of the security standards and potentially compromise the organization’s security posture.

References: The information provided aligns with best practices in security policy development, which emphasize the importance of having a policy that is supported by the Board and Chief Executive, manages information assurance, and ensures compliance with legal and regulatory obligations1234.

The method used to target senior individuals in an organization for coercing them into actions like misdirected high-value payments is known as a whaling attack. This type of attack is a more targeted version of phishing, aimed specifically at high-ranking executives or important individuals within an organization. The attackers masquerade as a senior player at the organization and use social engineering techniques to trick the target into performing actions such as transferring money or revealing sensitive information. Whaling attacks are highly personalized and often involve extensive research on the target to make the fraudulent requestsseem legitimate and convincing. The term “whaling” is used because it refers to going after the “big fish” or “whales” of an organization, such as CEOs or CFOs, who have access to significant resources and sensitive information. References: Based on the information provided by Kaspersky’s resource center on whaling attacks1.

When establishing objectives for physical security environments, the primary goal is to prevent unauthorized access or damage to physical assets. The functional control that should occur first is ‘Deter’. Deterrence is about discouraging potential intruders from attempting to breach the physical security perimeter or engage in unauthorized activities. It is achieved through visible security measures such as signage, barriers, lighting, and the presence of security personnel. These measures are designed to make potential intruders aware of the risks and consequences of their actions, thereby reducing the likelihood of an attempt.

‘Delay’, ‘Drop’, and ‘Deny’ are subsequent controls that come into play if deterrence fails. ‘Delay’ involves slowing down the intruder, ‘Drop’ could mean removing the intruder’s access or privileges, and ‘Deny’ involves outright prevention of access. However, without initial deterrence, the effectiveness of these subsequent controls may be compromised.

References: This explanation utilizes the knowledge of Information Security Management Principles as outlined in the BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles, which includes the categorization, operation, and effectiveness of different types of controls12.

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is the most beneficial technology for ensuring consistent security settings across an organization’s devices, especially in a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) or mobile computing environment. MDM allows for the central management of security policies,the enforcement of strong authentication measures, and the protection of corporate data on personal devices. It provides the necessary tools to configure devices remotely, enforce security policies, manage applications, and protect against unauthorized access. This aligns with the Information Security Management Principles, particularly under the domains of Technical Security Controls and Procedural/People Security Controls, as it encompasses both the technology and the policies that govern its use by people within the organization123. References: The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles outlines the importance of understanding the concepts relating to information security management, which includes the knowledge of controls and characteristics that are essential for managing the security of information systems4. Additionally, the benefits of MDM in securing mobile and BYOD environments are well-documented, further supporting its selection as the most appropriate technology for Geoff’s requirements123.

In the context of cloud delivery models, the term “trusted” typically refers to the level of security control and assurance that clients can expect. Among the options provided, the Public cloud delivery model is generally considered to be the least “trusted” in terms of security by clients using the service. This is because public clouds are shared environments where the infrastructure and services are owned and operated by a third-party provider and shared among multiple tenants. The multi-tenant nature of public clouds can introduce risks such as data breaches or other security incidents that might not be as prevalent in more controlled environments.

In contrast, Private clouds are dedicated to a single organization, providing more control over data, security, and compliance. Hybrid clouds combine both public and private elements, offering a balance of control and flexibility. Community clouds are shared between organizations with common goals and compliance requirements, offering a level of trust tailored to the group’s needs.

Therefore, while all cloud models come with their own security considerations and potential risks, the public cloud model is typically the one where clients have to place more trust in the provider’s security measures, as they have less control over the environment.

References: The information provided here is based on common cloud computing frameworks and security considerations, which are part of the foundational knowledge of Information Security Management Principles as outlined by BCS and supported by industry insights12.

Appointing a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is the most effective action at the board level to improve the security culture within an organization using a top-downapproach. The CISO plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining the enterprise vision, strategy, and program to ensure information assets and technologies are adequately protected. The CISO is responsible for leading the development and implementation of a security program across all aspects of the organization, which includes aligning security initiatives with business objectives, managing risk, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. This strategic role not only helps in creating a robust security posture but also promotes a culture of security awareness throughout the organization. By having a dedicated executive responsible for security, it sends a clear message that the organization prioritizes information security and is committed to protecting its assets and stakeholders.

References: = The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles emphasizes the importance of leadership and governance in the context of information security management, which includes the appointment of key roles such as the CISO1. Additionally, industry best practices and guidelines often recommend the appointment of a CISO as a critical step in fostering a strong security culture from the top down23.

The reporting of security incidents involving personal data is distinct from other types of incidents primarily due to the legal obligations imposed by data protection legislation. Such laws typically mandate that organizations report certain types of breaches involving personal data to a Supervisory Authority within a specified timeframe. This requirement is in place to ensure prompt and appropriate response to potential privacy risks affecting individuals’ rights and freedoms. Failure to comply can result in significant penalties for the organization. The reporting process also often includes notifying affected individuals, especially if there is a high risk of adverse effects on their rights and freedoms12.

References :=

• The UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 outline the duty of organizations to report certain personal data breaches to the relevant supervisory authority, such as the ICO, within 72 hours of becoming aware of the breach1.
• The ICO’s guide on personal data breaches provides detailed instructions on how to recognize a breach, the reporting process, and the importance of having robust breach detection, investigation, and internal reporting procedures12.

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a security framework that impacts organizations involved with credit card transactions. It sets the requirements for ensuring the security of cardholder data, which is crucial for businesses that accept credit cards, process credit card transactions, store cardholder data, or transmit it. PCI DSS compliance is mandatory for these entities to help prevent credit card fraud, hacking, and various other security vulnerabilities. The standard requires organizations to maintain a secure network, protect cardholder data, manage vulnerabilities, implement strong access control measures, regularly monitor and test networks, and maintain an information security policy.

References: The importance of PCI DSS in the context of Information Security Management Principles is highlighted by its role in protecting payment-related data and ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of financial transactions. It aligns with the domains of Technical Security Controls and Physical and Environmental Security Controls, as it encompasses both digital and physical aspects of data protection123.

A qualitative risk assessment approach is characterized by the subjective analysis of the likelihood of a risk occurring and its potential impact. This method relies on the judgment and experience of the assessor to estimate the severity of a risk. It does not use numerical data or statistical methods, which are typical of quantitative assessments. Instead, it may use descriptors like ‘low’, ‘medium’, or ‘high’ to rate both the likelihoodof occurrence and the potential impact. This approach is useful when precise data is unavailable or when assessing complex, multifaceted risks where human insight is valuable.

References: The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles outlines the importance of understanding the different approaches to risk assessment, including qualitative methods. It emphasizes the need for subjective analysis in certain scenarios and the role of experienced judgment in evaluating risks1.

The final stage in the information management lifecycle is often disposal. This stage involves the secure deletion or destruction of information that is no longer needed or has reached the end of its retention period. Proper disposal is crucial to prevent unauthorized access or recovery of sensitive data. It ensures compliance with data protection regulations and organizational policies regarding the retention and destruction of data.

References: The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles highlights the importance of managing information throughout its lifecycle, including the final stage of disposal. This aligns with industry best practices and standards such as ISO/IEC 27001, which includes requirements for the secure disposal of information1. Additionally, the Information Lifecycle Management (ILM) framework also identifies disposal as a key phase, emphasizing the need for policies and procedures to manage the end-of-life of information assets1.

 When outsourcing data processing, the original data owner has a legal duty of care to ensure that the third party is competent to process the data securely (1) and observes the same high standards as the data owner (2). This means that the third party must have the necessary skills, knowledge, and security measures in place to protect the data,and they must adhere to the same level of data protection and privacy standards as the original owner. Processing the data wherever it can be transferred (3) and archiving the data for the third party’s own long-term usage (4) are not primary legal considerations and may, in fact, contravene data protection laws if done without proper safeguards and compliance with regulations.

References: The duty of care in the context of data protection is a critical aspect of GDPR and other privacy regulations, which emphasize the responsibility of data controllers to ensure that any third-party processors they use comply with the same data protection standards1. Additionally, the principles of due care and due diligence in cybersecurity highlight the importance of selecting competent third-party service providers and ensuring they maintain high standards of data protection2.

The delivery of online security training material offers several advantages over printed media. One of the key benefits is the ease of updating content. When updates are required, online materials can be edited quickly and efficiently, with changes being immediately available to all users. This contrasts with printed materials, which would require a new physical version to be produced and distributed, a process that is both time-consuming and resource-intensive1.

Furthermore, online training materials can be accessed from anywhere at any time, providing flexibility and convenience for learners. They also allow for interactive elements, such as quizzes and simulations, which can enhance the learning experience1. Additionally, online materials can be tracked for usage and completion, enabling organizations to monitor compliance with training requirements2.

While option C mentions a ‘discoverable record,’ this refers to the legal concept that materials may be used as evidence in litigation. However, this is not an advantage of online over printed media, as both can be discoverable. Option B’s claim that online materials are intrinsically more accurate is not necessarily true, as accuracy depends on the content’s quality, not the delivery method. Option D is incorrect because while online materials are protected by copyright laws, this is not an exclusive benefit over printed materials, which are also protected.

References: The explanation is based on the general principles of Information Security Management, particularly focusing on the efficiency and flexibility of online training delivery as opposed to traditional printed methods. The references are derived from the search results provided by the web search tool, which align with the known benefits of online cybersecurity training and the drawbacks of printed media12.

The term ‘computer misuse’ typically refers to activities that are illegal or unauthorized and involve a computer system. This includes illegal interception of information, illegal access to computer systems, and downloading of pirated software, as these actions are unauthorized and often involve breaching security measures. However, the illegal retention of personal data, while a serious privacy concern and potentially a legal issue, is not typically classified under the scope of ‘computer misuse’. Instead, it falls under data protection and privacy regulations, which deal with the proper handling and storage of personal information.

References: The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles discusses various forms of computer misuse within the context of informationsecurity management, emphasizing the importance of understanding and complying with legal requirements related to information security1.

RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) is a widely accepted asymmetric encryption algorithm. Unlike symmetric algorithms, which use the same key for both encryption and decryption, asymmetric algorithms use a pair of keys – a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption. This method allows for secure key exchange over an insecure channel without the need to share the private key. RSA operates on the principle that it is easy to multiply large prime numbers together to create a product, but it is hard to reverse the process, i.e., to factorize the product back into the original primes. This one-way function underpins the security of RSA.

References: The information provided is based on standard cryptographic principles as outlined in resources like BCS Information Security Management Principles and other cryptography texts12345.

 Social engineering attacks are designed to exploit human psychology and manipulate individuals into breaking normal security procedures and best practices. These attacks have the most impact on an employee’s compliance with an organization’s code of conduct because they directly target the employee’s behavior and decision-making process. By using deception, persuasion, or influence, attackers can coerce employees into divulging confidential information, providing access to restricted areas, or performing actions that go against the company’s policies and ethical standards. This form of attack can lead to violations of the code of conduct, as employees may unknowingly or unwillingly engage in activities that compromise the organization’s values and principles.

References: The explanation is supported by the information provided in resources discussing the impact of social engineering on organizational security and employee behavior12. These sources highlight the significance of understanding and mitigating social engineering threats to maintain code of conduct compliance within a company.

The concept of a security culture within an organization emphasizes that security is not solely a technical issue but also a behavioral one. Appropriate behaviors are essential because they embody the organization’s values and beliefs about security. These behaviors ensure that all members of the organization understand and adhere to security policies and procedures, thereby reducing risk and reinforcing the security regime. This includes following the ‘need to know’ principle, verifying IDs, and implementing access denial measures, but it is the appropriate behaviors that integrate these actions into a coherent and effective security culture.

References: The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles provides a comprehensive understanding of information security management, including the importance of fostering a security culture through appropriate behaviors12.

Digital signatures are a form of electronic signature that uses cryptographic techniques to provide secure and verifiable means of signing electronic documents. They are widely recognized and accepted as legally binding in many jurisdictions around the world. The enforceability of digital signatures is backed by various laws and regulations that recognize electronic signatures as equivalent to handwritten signatures, provided they meet certain criteria for authenticity and integrity. For instance, in the United States, the ESIGN Act establishes the legal validity of electronic signatures, including digital signatures1. Similarly, the eIDAS regulation in the European Union provides a legal framework for electronic signatures and trust services, including digital signatures2.

References := The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles addresses the legal aspects of information security, including the enforceability of digital signatures. It aligns with international standards and practices that affirm the legal validity of digital signatures, as reflected in documents such as the ESIGN Act and the eIDAS regulation34.

 Ensuring the correctness of data inputted to a system is a fundamental aspect of data integrity within information security. Integrity refers to the trustworthiness and accuracy of data throughout its lifecycle. This means that the data has not been altered in an unauthorized manner and remains consistent, accurate, and trustworthy. It is crucial for the proper functioning of any system that relies on data to make decisions or perform operations. Measures to ensure data integrity include input validation, error checking, and data verification processes that prevent incorrect data entry, unauthorized data alteration, and ensure that the data reflects its intended state.

References: This concept is covered under the BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles, which outlines integrity as one of the key facets of information security, ensuring that data remains authentic and unaltered from its original state123.

Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) are legal contracts that are designed to protect sensitive information. They are a critical part of an employee’s contract of employment to ensure that confidential data is not released to unauthorized third parties. NDAs are specifically intended to prevent the disclosure of confidential information both during the period of employment and after the employee has left the organization. This is essential for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of proprietary information which could include trade secrets, client data, and other types of sensitive information.

References: The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles outlines the importance of legal and contractual mechanisms, such as NDAs, in protecting information security within an organization1. Additionally, the syllabus for the certification provides a framework for understanding how different types of controls, including legal ones like NDAs, contribute to the overall security posture of an organization2.

Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is an attack that exploits the trust relationship between a user’s browser and a server-based website. In a CSRF attack, the attacker tricks the authenticated user’s browser into sending a request to a third-party site, which the browser is already authenticated with, without the user’s knowledge or consent. This can lead to unauthorized actions being performed on the user’s behalf, such as changing user settings, posting content, or even initiating financial transactions. The attack leverages the fact that the browser automatically includes credentials like cookies, session tokens, or other authentication information with each request to a site123.

References :=

• Reflectoring’s "Complete Guide to CSRF/XSRF (Cross-Site Request Forgery)"1.
• OWASP Foundation’s “Anti CSRF Tokens ASP.NET” article2.
• Threat Intelligence’s blog on "Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) - What Is It, How to Prevent It"3.

 Accountability is the term that describes the acknowledgement and acceptance of ownership of actions, decisions, policies, and deliverables. It implies that an individual or organization is willing to take responsibility for their actions and the outcomes of those actions, and is answerable to the relevant stakeholders. This concept is fundamental in information security management, as it ensures that individuals and teams are aware of their roles and the expectations placed upon them, particularly in relation to the protection of information assets. Accountability cannot be delegated; while tasks can be assigned to others, the ultimate ownership and obligation to report and justify the outcomes remain with the accountable party.

References: = The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles outlines the importance of accountability within the context of information security management. It is a key principle that supports the governance of information security and the management of risks associated with information assets1.