What is the role of security controls in protecting information assets?

The role of security controls in protecting information assets is specifically to act as safeguards or countermeasures that help prevent, detect, or respond to security threats. This is crucial for maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information. Security controls can take various forms, including technical measures such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, administrative measures like security policies and training, and physical measures that protect the physical environment where data is stored and processed.

By implementing effective security controls, organizations can significantly reduce the likelihood of security incidents, mitigate the impact of such incidents if they do occur, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. This proactive approach is essential for managing cyber risk and safeguarding information assets in an increasingly complex threat landscape.