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CISSP Exam - Question 279


An organization has discovered that organizational data is posted by employees to data storage accessible to the general public. What is the PRIMARY step an organization must take to ensure data is properly protected from public release?

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Correct Answer: D

To ensure data is properly protected from public release, the primary step an organization must take is to implement a data classification policy. A data classification policy helps in categorizing and labeling data based on its sensitivity and criticality, providing clear guidelines on handling, storing, and sharing the data. This foundational step is crucial for identifying which data should be confidential or restricted and which can be publicly shared. Once data is classified appropriately, measures like user training, access controls, and encryption can be effectively applied to safeguard it.

Discussion

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stickerbush1970Option: D
Mar 15, 2023

Agree with D, data classification is paramount for the organization.

jackdryan
Nov 13, 2023

D is correct

Nabs1Option: D
Mar 9, 2023

It should be D - Data Classification Policy

IvanchunOption: C
Jun 27, 2023

According to the question about the data public release, i think the problem is not about the data but is the users

Sas2003
May 26, 2024

But how the user will know what data ok to post and what data is not? Classification comes first.

Dee83
Jul 28, 2023

D. Implement a data classification policy. The primary step an organization must take to ensure data is properly protected from public release is to implement a data classification policy. This policy should clearly define what data is considered sensitive or confidential and establish guidelines for handling, storing, and sharing that data. Once the data has been properly classified, the organization can then take appropriate measures to secure it, such as implementing access controls, data encryption, and regular auditing to ensure compliance with the policy. In addition, user training on data classification and handling policies is also important to raise awareness and to make sure all employees understand their responsibilities in protecting the organizational data.

klarakOption: C
Nov 9, 2024

I think it's C because this exam is supposed to be from a management level. D is a technical control. C is the corresponding administrative control. You can have data classification, but if your employees don't know how to use it, it may not do anything. You can implement automated data classification, but that's not what the question says.

franbarpro
Apr 24, 2023

The PRIMARY step is to classified the data.

254Tech
May 9, 2023

True. D is the answer because why train employees on something you havent classified yet.

Hava_2013
May 15, 2023

The given answer is CORRECT!!!!!

BP_lobsterOption: D
May 25, 2023

Data Classification supports all other elements of the Information Lifecycle (CSUSAD) but also can see here via elimination i.e. how would employees know what to report, encrypt or handle with special care if data is not classified?

oudmaster
Jun 16, 2023

even if you train the employees, they will still make mistakes. I would exclude option C. Option D is better.

The1BelowAllOption: C
Oct 3, 2023

What if the employee has the right to access data?

KakekGuru
Jan 20, 2025

Then data classification policy should regulate how to handle or share the data.

SangSang
Jan 22, 2025

Then how do they know how to handle that data appropriately without properly training and practicing?

SangSang
Jan 22, 2025

Then how do they know how to handle that data appropriately without properly training and practicing?

Soleandheel
Jun 14, 2024

D. Implement a data classification policy. A data classification policy is essential for categorizing and labeling data based on its sensitivity and criticality. It helps organizations identify which data should be treated as confidential or restricted and which can be shared publicly. By classifying data appropriately, the organization can establish clear guidelines for handling, sharing, and protecting data.

JBAnalyst
Aug 19, 2024

D. A proper classification policy will cover user training

cysec_4_lyfeOption: D
Mar 17, 2025

Data Classification: This involves categorizing data based on its sensitivity and importance. By classifying data, organizations can determine which data should be kept confidential and which can be shared publicly. This helps in setting clear guidelines for employees on what data can be shared and how it should be handled. Guidelines for Employees: A data classification policy provides a framework for employees to understand what types of data are sensitive and should not be shared publicly. This helps in preventing accidental or intentional leaks of sensitive information. Access Control: Once data is classified, access controls can be implemented to ensure that sensitive data is only accessible to authorized personnel. This reduces the risk of unauthorized data being shared publicly. Implement a User Reporting Policy (A): While important for encouraging employees to report data breaches or leaks, this does not prevent the initial leak from occurring.