Which of the following describes a systematic reduction in risk exposure?

Risk mitigation involves taking proactive measures to systematically reduce risk exposure. This can include implementing policies, procedures, or controls designed to lessen the potential impact of risks identified during a risk assessment. By managing the level of risk through various strategies—such as transferring risk, sharing it, or reducing its likelihood and/or impact—organizations can create a more secure environment. Mitigation strategies are important because they often address risks that cannot be entirely eliminated, allowing an organization to continue operations while minimizing potential negative outcomes.

In contrast, risk assessment focuses more on identifying and evaluating risks rather than actively reducing them. Risk management is a broader term that encompasses the identification, assessment, and prioritization of risks, followed by the coordinated application of resources to minimize, monitor, and control the probability or impact of unfortunate events. Risk avoidance refers to completely eliminating a risk by not engaging in activities that may lead to it, which differs fundamentally from the approach of systematic risk reduction that entails active engagement with risks.