How often should security protocols be reviewed and updated?

Security protocols must be reviewed and updated annually or as needed based on risk assessments to ensure they remain effective in addressing current threats and vulnerabilities. Regular reviews allow for the incorporation of new information, technological advancements, and evolving security landscapes, which can change significantly over time.

Conducting annual reviews ensures that any new threats that may have emerged within the year are considered and integrated into the protocols. Additionally, if an organization conducts a risk assessment that reveals new vulnerabilities or changes in the operational environment, updates can be made promptly to address these findings. This proactive approach is essential to maintaining a robust security posture.

Relying solely on scheduled reviews, such as every two or five years, may leave gaps in protection, especially in today’s rapidly changing threat environment. Waiting for new threats to be identified before making changes could result in serious security incidents that could have been mitigated through timely updates. Thus, the approach outlined in the correct answer promotes a dynamic and responsive security framework.