Free CISM - Certified Information Security Manager Practice Questions: Information Security Governance Domain

Published: October 1, 2025 | 20 min read

Test your CISM - Certified Information Security Manager knowledge with 10 free practice questions from the Information Security Governance domain. Includes detailed explanations and answers.

Free CISM - Certified Information Security Manager Practice Questions

Master the Information Security Governance Domain

Test your knowledge in the Information Security Governance domain with these 10 practice questions. Each question is designed to help you prepare for the CISM - Certified Information Security Manager certification exam with detailed explanations to reinforce your learning.

Question 1

The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of a financial institution is tasked with establishing a security governance framework. Which of the following should be prioritized to ensure the framework's success?

A) Ensure compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.

B) Develop a security awareness program for all employees.

C) Obtain executive management support and commitment.

D) Implement advanced technical security controls.

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: C

Explanation: Obtaining executive management support and commitment is critical for the success of a security governance framework. It ensures that security initiatives receive the necessary resources and alignment with the organization's strategic objectives.

Question 2

Which of the following is the most important role of senior management in establishing an effective information security governance framework?

A) Developing detailed security procedures

B) Providing strategic direction and support

C) Conducting regular security assessments

D) Designing technical security solutions

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: B

Explanation: The most important role of senior management is to provide strategic direction and support (Option B). This ensures that the information security governance framework aligns with business objectives and has the necessary resources and backing to be effective. Developing procedures (Option A) and designing technical solutions (Option D) are typically delegated to security professionals. Conducting assessments (Option C) is an operational task rather than a governance responsibility.

Question 3

An organization is revising its information security governance model. Which of the following should be the first step in this process?

A) Conducting a risk assessment to identify current threats.

B) Reviewing the organization's strategic objectives.

C) Benchmarking against industry best practices.

D) Updating the security awareness training program.

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: B

Explanation: The first step in revising an information security governance model should be reviewing the organization's strategic objectives. This ensures that the governance model aligns with the overall goals of the organization. Understanding strategic objectives provides a foundation for aligning security efforts with business priorities. While risk assessment, benchmarking, and training updates are important, they should be informed by the strategic direction of the organization.

Question 4

A company is reviewing its information security governance framework. Which of the following is the most critical factor to ensure the framework is effective in supporting the business?

A) Regular updates to the security policies

B) Integration with enterprise architecture

C) Comprehensive employee training programs

D) Frequent security audits

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: B

Explanation: Integration with enterprise architecture (Option B) is the most critical factor because it ensures that information security is embedded within the overall business processes and IT strategy, thereby supporting business objectives. While regular updates to policies (Option A), training programs (Option C), and audits (Option D) are important, they are components of the governance framework rather than the framework itself.

Question 5

When presenting the information security governance framework to the board of directors, which of the following should be the primary focus?

A) The technical specifications of implemented security solutions.

B) The alignment of security initiatives with business objectives and risk management.

C) The cost savings achieved through security measures.

D) The number of security incidents prevented in the past year.

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: B

Explanation: The primary focus should be on the alignment of security initiatives with business objectives and risk management (Option B), as this demonstrates the value of security in supporting organizational goals and managing risks, which is a key concern for the board, according to ISACA's governance principles. Option A is too technical for the board's strategic focus. Option C might be relevant but should not be the primary focus. Option D is a metric that supports the overall strategy but should not be the main emphasis.

Question 6

The board of directors is concerned about the alignment of the information security strategy with business objectives. As an information security manager, what is the most effective way to address this concern?

A) Conduct regular security awareness training for all employees.

B) Develop a balanced scorecard to measure security performance.

C) Ensure all security policies are updated and distributed.

D) Establish a governance committee that includes business leaders.

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: D

Explanation: Establishing a governance committee that includes business leaders is the most effective way to ensure alignment between the information security strategy and business objectives. This committee can provide insights into business priorities and ensure that security initiatives support them. While training, performance measurement, and policy updates are important, they do not directly address alignment with business objectives.

Question 7

An organization is developing a new information security governance framework. Which of the following should be the primary focus to ensure alignment with business objectives?

A) Establishing a comprehensive set of security policies and procedures.

B) Conducting a detailed risk assessment to identify potential threats.

C) Ensuring executive management supports and participates in the process.

D) Implementing advanced security technologies to protect critical assets.

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: C

Explanation: The primary focus of developing an information security governance framework should be to ensure executive management supports and participates in the process (Option C). This alignment ensures that the framework is in line with business objectives and receives the necessary resources and attention. While establishing policies (Option A), conducting risk assessments (Option B), and implementing technologies (Option D) are important, they are secondary to securing executive buy-in and alignment with business goals.

Question 8

The board of directors is concerned about the organization's preparedness for emerging threats. As the information security manager, which governance activity should you prioritize to address these concerns?

A) Conduct regular threat intelligence briefings for the board.

B) Develop a comprehensive business continuity plan.

C) Implement a robust risk management framework.

D) Increase investment in advanced threat detection technologies.

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: C

Explanation: Implementing a robust risk management framework is a governance activity that addresses the board's concerns about preparedness for emerging threats. It provides a structured approach to identify, assess, and manage risks, including new and evolving threats. While threat intelligence briefings, business continuity planning, and technology investments are important, they should be components of a comprehensive risk management strategy.

Question 9

Your organization is planning to expand its operations globally, which will require adjustments to the information security governance framework. What should be your primary focus to ensure a smooth transition?

A) Standardize security policies across all regions.

B) Evaluate local regulatory requirements and cultural differences.

C) Increase the budget for security technologies.

D) Hire additional security personnel in each region.

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: B

Explanation: Evaluating local regulatory requirements and cultural differences should be the primary focus when expanding globally. This ensures that the information security governance framework is compliant and culturally sensitive in each region. Option A, standardizing policies, may not be feasible due to regional differences. Option C, increasing the budget, is a reactive measure and does not address specific regional needs. Option D, hiring additional personnel, is a logistical consideration but should follow the evaluation of local requirements.

Question 10

Which of the following is the best method to ensure continuous improvement in an organization's information security governance framework?

A) Implementing a quarterly review process with key stakeholders.

B) Conducting annual security awareness training for all employees.

C) Regularly benchmarking against industry standards.

D) Establishing a dedicated team for policy enforcement.

Show Answer & Explanation

Correct Answer: A

Explanation: Implementing a quarterly review process with key stakeholders is the best method to ensure continuous improvement in the information security governance framework. This process allows for regular assessment and adaptation of the framework based on feedback, changing business needs, and emerging threats. While benchmarking, training, and enforcement are important, they do not inherently provide a mechanism for continuous improvement.

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About CISM - Certified Information Security Manager Certification

The CISM - Certified Information Security Manager certification validates your expertise in information security governance and other critical domains. Our comprehensive practice questions are carefully crafted to mirror the actual exam experience and help you identify knowledge gaps before test day.