What term describes the risk that remains after countermeasures have been deployed?

The term that describes the risk that remains after countermeasures have been deployed is residual risk. Residual risk is the amount of risk that is left over after the protective measures, or countermeasures, have been applied. In risk management, it is essential to recognize that while countermeasures can significantly reduce risk, it is often impossible to eliminate it entirely. Therefore, understanding residual risk is critical for organizations to make informed decisions about additional measures that may be needed to address the remaining risk, or to accept the remaining risk as part of their risk tolerance.

This concept is vital in cybersecurity and risk management frameworks, as it helps organizations gauge how effective their security measures have been and what potential vulnerabilities still exist. By assessing residual risk, organizations can prioritize further actions, allocate resources appropriately, and develop a comprehensive approach to risk management.

In contrast, the other terms do not accurately reflect this concept. Terminal risk implies an absolute end or conclusion to risk, which is not applicable in a dynamic environment where threats evolve. Infinite risk suggests a constant state of exposure without boundaries, which does not resonate with how risk is measured post-countermeasures. Imminent risk usually refers to a risk that is expected to occur in the near future, rather than the remaining