In a risk assessment, what does the term 'mitigation' refer to?

Mitigation in the context of risk assessment is focused on implementing strategies and actions aimed at reducing the potential impact of risks on an organization. This can include a variety of measures such as establishing security protocols, enhancing training and awareness programs, employing technology to minimize vulnerabilities, or developing contingency plans in case certain risks materialize.

Effective mitigation is critical because it helps organizations not only prevent risks from occurring but also lessens the consequences if they do. This approach not only safeguards assets but also contributes to overall resilience and operational continuity. Essentially, it is about proactively addressing vulnerabilities and preparing to handle threats in a manner that minimizes harm.

The other choices represent various aspects of the risk management process but do not capture the essence of mitigation. Identifying risks and threats is a preliminary step in risk assessment, while sharing news of risks with stakeholders pertains to communication strategy. The evaluation of past incidents is more related to learning from previous experiences rather than actively reducing future risks.