Final answer:
Multifactor authentication is the best security control to reduce the risk of company data exposure when employees use personal devices for work, as it adds a crucial layer of security against unauthorized access.
Step-by-step explanation:
Best Security Controls to Reduce Data Exposure RisksWhen a company allows employees to use their personally owned devices for work, it raises the risk of company data breaches and security incidents. In the scenario where the company is experiencing data appearance on unapproved forums and an increased theft of personal electronic devices, the most effective security control would be multifactor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an additional layer of security by requiring two or more verification methods, which significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access even if a device is stolen or a password is compromised.
While options such as disk encryption, group policy for login lockout, and email digital signatures may improve security to some extent, they do not address the root cause of the current issues as effectively as MFA. Disk encryption is useful if a device is lost or stolen to protect the data on it, but it does not prevent unauthorized access to company systems or data leakages. Group policy for login lockout can help to prevent brute-force attacks but does not protect against the use of stolen credentials. Digital signatures ensure the integrity and authenticity of emails, but will not prevent unauthorized access to systems.It is also crucial to educate employees about online privacy and security, promoting good practices such as the use of strong passwords, being cautious with clicking on suspicious links in emails, and the importance of regularly updating privacy settings.