Certified Incident Handler (CIH) Practice Ecam

Which method is most effective for preventing data leaks by insiders?

1. Encouraging sharing of passwords among employees

2. Enforcing strict access controls and monitoring

3. Limiting security training to new hires

4. Relying solely on software solutions

The correct answer is: Enforcing strict access controls and monitoring

The most effective method for preventing data leaks by insiders is to enforce strict access controls and monitoring. This approach involves implementing policies that define who has access to specific data based on the principle of least privilege, meaning individuals only have access necessary for their job functions. By doing so, organizations can reduce the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information. Additionally, continuous monitoring allows for the detection of unusual activity or behaviors that may indicate data extraction or manipulation attempts by insiders. This combination of access control and monitoring creates a proactive defense against potential threats posed by employees who misuse their access privileges, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of data leaks. The other methods mentioned do not effectively address the complexities of insider threats. For instance, encouraging password sharing undermines security protocols and increases the likelihood of unauthorized access. Limiting security training to new hires neglects the importance of ongoing education for all employees, which is vital in maintaining awareness of security risks. Relying solely on software solutions may fail to account for human behavior and the need for comprehensive security awareness and protocols that cannot be managed by software alone.