What is the purpose of a risk assessment in cybersecurity?

The purpose of a risk assessment in cybersecurity primarily revolves around identifying potential cybersecurity threats. A risk assessment involves a systematic process of recognizing vulnerabilities, evaluating the likelihood of threat occurrences, and understanding the potential impact these threats can have on an organization's information systems and sensitive data. By pinpointing these risks, organizations can prioritize their security efforts, implement appropriate controls, and allocate resources effectively to mitigate identified threats.

This process not only helps in safeguarding sensitive information but also supports the organization in complying with regulatory requirements and maintaining stakeholder confidence. In contrast, the other options do not directly relate to the primary function of risk assessments in the cybersecurity context, which is focused on identifying and managing risks to protect digital assets.