What are "security controls"?

Security controls are safeguards or countermeasures designed to mitigate risks associated with various threats to assets, including people, property, and information. These controls are essential for establishing a security framework within an organization, helping to identify vulnerabilities and implement measures that can reduce the likelihood and impact of security incidents.

For instance, security controls may include physical barriers like locks and security personnel, technical solutions like firewalls and encryption, and administrative measures such as training and policies. By effectively employing these controls, an organization can protect itself from a wide range of potential threats, thereby ensuring the safety and security of its resources.

The other options do not align with the definition of security controls. Strategies for employee performance reviews pertain to human resources practices and do not focus on mitigating risks. Financial investments in technology may enhance security but do not represent the concept of security controls directly. Lastly, company policies for IT management are important guidelines but are not the safeguards themselves—they could be considered a component of broader security controls.