Which of the following is classified as a technical countermeasure?

The classification of countermeasures into technical, physical, and administrative categories helps organizations effectively secure their assets. Technical countermeasures specifically involve the technology and tools utilized to protect information and systems from threats.

Encryption and firewalls are quintessential examples of technical countermeasures. Encryption secures data by converting it into a coded format that can only be read by someone with the appropriate decryption key. This is crucial for protecting sensitive information during storage and transmission. Firewalls act as barriers between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Together, these technologies form a robust defense mechanism that leverages technical solutions to mitigate cybersecurity risks.

In contrast, other options reflect different categories of countermeasures. Security policies and employee awareness training fall under administrative measures, focusing on the organization’s rules and the education of personnel. Surveillance cameras and on-site guards are physical measures, enhancing security through physical presence and monitoring. Regular security audits and assessments are also administrative, aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of security policies and practices rather than utilizing technical tools to enforce security directly. Thus, the identification of encryption and firewalls as technical countermeasures aligns perfectly with their fundamental roles in safeguarding information systems.