Which method is typically used to perform a risk assessment?

Conducting a vulnerability scan of systems is a widely accepted method for performing a risk assessment because it allows organizations to identify existing security vulnerabilities within their IT infrastructure. This method systematically evaluates systems, applications, and networks to discover potential weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors. By identifying these vulnerabilities, organizations can assess the associated risks and prioritize their mitigation efforts based on the likelihood and impact of potential threats.

This scanning process provides critical insights into the current security posture and informs decision-making around necessary security improvements, making it an integral part of an effective risk management strategy. In contrast, inspecting physical office locations, while useful for general security assessments, does not specifically address the digital aspects of risk. Increasing the number of IT staff members does not directly assess risk but may improve overall security posture through enhanced personnel availability. Similarly, developing user manuals for new software, while important for user education, does not contribute to identifying and evaluating security risks within the systems themselves.