What function do detective controls serve in a security environment?

Detective controls play a critical role in a security environment by actively identifying and documenting security violations and attempts at unauthorized access. These controls are designed to monitor systems and networks, capturing evidence of any malicious activities or breaches as they occur. By doing so, they provide organizations with the necessary insights to respond to security incidents effectively, analyze potential vulnerabilities, and improve their overall security posture.

The primary function of detective controls is to ensure that when security incidents happen, they can be detected swiftly, allowing for timely reactions to mitigate damage. This includes tools such as intrusion detection systems, security information and event management (SIEM) systems, and logs that track access and changes to sensitive data.

In contrast, other options focus on different functions within security management. For instance, preventing unauthorized access relates more to preventive controls, while establishing policy compliance is about ensuring that security policies are followed. Managing user permissions pertains to access controls that limit what users can do within a system based on their roles. Each of these functions is important, but they do not fulfill the same role as detective controls in identifying and responding to security threats.