A former employee of Company A has gained unauthorized access to the company's sensitive information. What does this present?

The correct answer highlights that the unauthorized access by a former employee poses a direct threat to the organization’s sensitive information and assets. In this context, a threat is defined as any potential event or action that can exploit a vulnerability and result in harm to the organization. Here, the former employee's actions indicate a significant risk because they have the ability to expose, manipulate, or steal sensitive information, which can lead to data breaches, legal repercussions, and loss of trust among stakeholders.

Choosing this option reflects an understanding of the fundamental principles of information security, where threats must be identified and managed to protect an organization's information assets effectively. The focus is on recognizing the potential impact of unauthorized access, emphasizing the need for robust security measures and incident response plans to mitigate such threats.

Other options could misinterpret the scenario: one option refers to a vulnerability in monitoring systems, which does not directly address the immediate risk posed by unauthorized access. Another option discusses the incorrect implementation of security controls, which doesn't necessarily capture the situation where a malicious insider poses a significant threat. Finally, mentioning a compliance issue related to employee management may overlook the more pressing concern of immediate data security and the consequences of unauthorized access. Understanding the nature of threats versus vulnerabilities is crucial for establishing effective cybersecurity measures.