Final answer:
The task of implementing strict password policies by a security professional is an example of proactive cybersecurity measures to mitigate the risk of password theft. Such policies, alongside enhanced security protocols like two-factor authentication, are critical to prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive information.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a security professional is tasked with implementing strict password policies on workstations to reduce the risk of password theft, this is an example of proactive cybersecurity measures. These policies are crucial in the business environment as they help to enhance the security posture of an organization by ensuring that its users have strong, difficult-to-guess passwords which are less likely to be compromised. The need for these measures is underscored by the definition of a security breach provided by the Personal Data Notification & Protection Act of 2017, which highlights the potential risks of sensitive data being acquired by unauthorized individuals.
To provide more context, issues like data breaches can lead to significant financial losses and reputational damage. Studies, such as the one conducted by Bruno & Abrahão in 2012 on the impact of cognitive effort on decision-making in an information security center, demonstrate how human factors play a crucial role in maintaining a secure IT environment. In addition to password policies, increased security measures such as two-factor authentication and user education can further mitigate the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information.