What is the primary goal of risk identification in cybersecurity?

The primary goal of risk identification in cybersecurity is to recognize potential threats and vulnerabilities that could affect an organization's assets. This process is essential because understanding the specific threats and vulnerabilities that an organization faces allows security professionals to take proactive measures to protect their assets.

Identifying risks is the foundational step in the risk management process, as it enables organizations to become aware of what could go wrong—be it through human error, technological failures, or malicious attacks. By systematically pinpointing these risks, organizations can prioritize them based on factors such as their potential impact and the likelihood of occurrence. This understanding is critical for developing effective risk mitigation strategies and ensuring the organization's assets remain secure.

Other options present valuable aspects of an organization's security posture but do not encapsulate the primary aim of risk identification. For instance, mitigating all risks before they occur is an ideal scenario but often not practical, as it may not be possible to eliminate all risks entirely. Creating awareness among employees about security is important for fostering a security-conscious culture but is not the main objective of risk identification itself. Similarly, developing a comprehensive security policy is crucial for guiding security efforts but stems from the risk identification process rather than being the main goal of it.