Describe the four domains of the CISM exam: Information Security Governance, Information Risk Management, Information Security Program Development and Management, and Information Security Incident Management.

  1. Information Security Governance:
    • Definition: Information Security Governance refers to the framework, policies, processes, and controls an organization uses to manage and oversee its information security program.
    • Key Components:
      • Establishing and maintaining an information security framework aligned with organizational goals and objectives.
      • Defining roles and responsibilities for information security throughout the organization.
      • Ensuring compliance with laws, regulations, and industry standards related to information security.
      • Managing risks associated with information security and ensuring that appropriate controls are in place.
      • Providing oversight and monitoring of the information security program to ensure its effectiveness.
    • Examples of Exam Topics:
      • Corporate governance and its relation to information security.
      • Development and maintenance of information security policies, standards, and procedures.
      • Risk management frameworks and methodologies.
      • Compliance requirements and regulatory frameworks.
  2. Information Risk Management:
    • Definition: Information Risk Management involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of an organization's information assets.
    • Key Components:
      • Identifying and classifying information assets and the risks associated with them.
      • Conducting risk assessments to determine the likelihood and impact of potential threats and vulnerabilities.
      • Developing risk mitigation strategies and controls to reduce the impact of identified risks.
      • Monitoring and reviewing risks on an ongoing basis to ensure that mitigation measures are effective.
    • Examples of Exam Topics:
      • Risk assessment methodologies and techniques.
      • Business impact analysis (BIA) and risk appetite.
      • Threat modeling and vulnerability assessment.
      • Risk treatment options and cost-benefit analysis.
  3. Information Security Program Development and Management:
    • Definition: Information Security Program Development and Management involves the planning, implementation, and maintenance of an organization's information security program to protect its information assets.
    • Key Components:
      • Developing and implementing information security strategies, policies, and procedures.
      • Establishing security awareness and training programs for employees.
      • Managing the deployment and maintenance of security technologies and controls.
      • Conducting regular security assessments and audits to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
      • Continuously improving the information security program based on lessons learned and emerging threats.
    • Examples of Exam Topics:
      • Security program governance and organizational structure.
      • Security architecture and design principles.
      • Security controls and technologies.
      • Security awareness and training programs.
      • Security metrics and performance measurement.
  4. Information Security Incident Management:
    • Definition: Information Security Incident Management involves preparing for, detecting, responding to, and recovering from security incidents to minimize their impact on the organization.
    • Key Components:
      • Developing an incident response plan that outlines roles, responsibilities, and procedures for responding to security incidents.
      • Establishing mechanisms for detecting and reporting security incidents in a timely manner.
      • Implementing procedures for containing, eradicating, and recovering from security incidents.
      • Conducting post-incident reviews to identify lessons learned and improve incident response processes.
    • Examples of Exam Topics:
      • Incident response planning and preparation.
      • Incident detection and escalation procedures.
      • Incident response techniques and best practices.
      • Incident recovery and post-incident analysis.