Which type of risk is still present even after controls have been implemented?

Residual risk refers to the risk that remains after appropriate risk management controls have been implemented to mitigate identified risks. It acknowledges that while controls can significantly reduce risks, they cannot eliminate them entirely. Organizations must understand and accept this level of risk, as it represents the exposure that still exists despite their best efforts.

Inherent risk is the level of risk that exists in the absence of any controls, reflecting the natural propensity for risk within a specific environment when no measures have been taken. Control risk, on the other hand, pertains to the risk that a company’s existing controls may fail to prevent an undesirable event, making it necessary to assess the effectiveness of those controls continuously.

Residual risk is therefore a crucial concept, as it helps organizations evaluate whether they are willing to accept the remaining risk or if further actions need to be taken to mitigate it further. Understanding this distinction is vital for effective risk management, ensuring that organizations remain proactive in addressing potential vulnerabilities.