What is a primary risk management tool for cloud consumers?

The Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM) serves as a primary risk management tool for cloud consumers by providing a comprehensive framework that helps organizations assess the security posture of cloud service providers and manage the associated risks effectively. It outlines a set of security controls tailored to cloud computing environments, allowing users to evaluate a provider's capabilities and align them with their own compliance and risk management requirements.

By utilizing the CCM, organizations can identify potential vulnerabilities and ensure that appropriate security measures are in place, which is crucial for managing risks associated with cloud services. This matrix also facilitates accountability and transparency between cloud consumers and providers, ensuring that both parties are aware of security expectations and obligations.

While Service Level Agreements (SLAs) are important for defining the level of service a customer can expect and change management plans are crucial for managing modifications to IT systems, these tools do not provide a comprehensive framework designed specifically to assess and manage the unique risks associated with cloud computing. A Disaster Recovery Plan, while critical for business continuity, primarily focuses on response and recovery from data loss events rather than ongoing risk assessment and management in the cloud context.