Exam CISA topic 1 question 701 discussion

C. Identifying risk associated with the data

C is correct.

Identifying risk associated with the data because risk is the primary input and driver for assigning the correct data classification level.

The order is A, but C is more important.

Data ownership is foundational

Identifying the risk associated with the data (option C) is the most important activity in the data classification process. This step involves assessing the potential impact to the organization if the data were to be lost, corrupted, or accessed by unauthorized individuals. The outcome of this risk assessment guides the classification of the data, which in turn determines how the data should be handled, protected, and labeled, and who should be accountable for it. Therefore, identifying risk associated with the data is the most critical step in the data classification process

Assigning clear ownership ensures that someone is responsible for overseeing the proper classification, protection, and handling of the data throughout its lifecycle. Without clear accountability, it's challenging to enforce data classification policies effectively. While identifying risks associated with the data (Option C) is essential for understanding its sensitivity and determining appropriate protections, without clear ownership, it may be difficult to implement and enforce these protections consistently.

Determining accountability of data owners is the most important activity in the data classification process. Data classification is a process that assigns categories or labels to data based on their value, sensitivity, criticality and risk to the organization. Data classification helps to determine the appropriate level of protection, access and retention for data. Determining accountability of data owners is an activity that identifies and assigns roles and responsibilities for data classification, protection and management to individuals or functions within the organization. Data owners are individuals or functions who have authority and responsibility for defining, classifying, protecting and managing data throughout their lifecycle.

B. Labeling the data appropriately

B is correct

I would go with A, a very first step is to find out where all your data resides, and who owns them; Therefor choice A is the most likely correct answer