CompTIA CASP+ Practice Test

After a data breach involving the HR and payroll system, what should be the FIRST action taken?

1. Reinforce network security

2. Assess system status

3. Notify affected individuals

4. Change passwords

The correct answer is: Assess system status

After a data breach involving the HR and payroll system, the first action should be to assess the system status. This step is crucial because it involves determining the extent of the breach, identifying any vulnerabilities that were exploited, and understanding what data may have been compromised. Conducting a thorough assessment allows the organization to gather vital information on the incident, which informs all subsequent actions, such as reinforcing network security, notifying affected individuals, and changing passwords. Assessing system status helps in prioritizing the response efforts. For instance, if sensitive data has been accessed or if the security breach is ongoing, immediate actions can be prioritized to mitigate further damage. This assessment forms the foundation for an effective incident response plan and helps ensure that appropriate measures are taken to secure systems against future breaches. Overall, understanding the situation before taking additional steps is fundamental to managing the incident effectively.