Which type of risk is specifically addressed by preventive controls?

Preventive controls are designed specifically to mitigate the likelihood of risks occurring. These controls are implemented proactively to reduce the chances of potential incidents or losses arising from various risk factors. By anticipating risks and putting measures in place to prevent them, organizations can minimize disruptions, maintain business continuity, and protect their assets and resources.

Preventive controls can take several forms, including policies, procedures, training programs, and technical safeguards, all aimed at thwarting potential issues before they manifest. For instance, a company might install fire suppression systems to prevent fire-related incidents or implement access controls to prevent unauthorized data access.

The focus on likelihood is critical, as it directly pertains to the core objective of preventive measures: to preemptively address threat scenarios before they evolve into actual risks. Thus, the correct answer highlights the essence of preventive controls in risk management, emphasizing their role in reducing the probability of adverse events.