iSACA Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certification Practice Exam

What is typically included in database controls?

1. System performance enhancements

2. User interface design modifications

3. Logging and transactional monitoring

4. Software compatibility checks

The correct answer is: Logging and transactional monitoring

Database controls are essential mechanisms that help protect data integrity, enhance security, and ensure that database transactions are conducted appropriately. One of the critical components of these controls is logging and transactional monitoring. Logging involves recording all actions taken on the database, including changes made to data, user access, and interactions with the database management system. This process is crucial for auditing purposes, enabling organizations to trace activities back to their source and investigate any potential security breaches or anomalies effectively. Transactional monitoring, on the other hand, refers to overseeing the execution of transactions to ensure they occur correctly and adhere to defined protocols. This encompasses managing the atomicity, consistency, isolation, and durability of database transactions (commonly referred to as ACID properties). Proper monitoring helps prevent issues such as data corruption, unauthorized access, and loss of data integrity. In contrast, other options like system performance enhancements, user interface design modifications, and software compatibility checks do not directly relate to the security and reliability aspects necessary for managing and controlling data within a database. These functions, while important for overall database management, do not specifically address the stringent requirements associated with database controls focused on security and integrity. Therefore, logging and transactional monitoring stand out as the key elements of effective database control practices.