Unauthorized software installation creates which combination of risks?

Unauthorized software installation creates which combination of risks?

• A. Increased productivity.
• B. Licensing/compliance risk and potential security risk.
• C. Reduced license costs.
• D. Improved security.

Answer: (B)

Unauthorized software installation creates two main risk categories: licensing/compliance risk and security risk. When software is installed without approval, it may violate license terms and exceed permitted deployments, leading to audit findings, penalties, and unbudgeted costs because IT asset management and licensing controls didn’t authorize or track it. At the same time, unvetted programs can come from untrusted sources, lack timely updates, or hide malware, which elevates the chance of security breaches, data loss, and system compromise. This combination—potential licensing problems plus security vulnerabilities—captures the real dangers of unauthorized installations. The other outcomes listed—more productivity, lower license costs, or improved security—don’t reflect the typical risks and often conflict with actual governance and security practices.

Unauthorized software installation creates two main risk categories: licensing/compliance risk and security risk. When software is installed without approval, it may violate license terms and exceed permitted deployments, leading to audit findings, penalties, and unbudgeted costs because IT asset management and licensing controls didn’t authorize or track it. At the same time, unvetted programs can come from untrusted sources, lack timely updates, or hide malware, which elevates the chance of security breaches, data loss, and system compromise. This combination—potential licensing problems plus security vulnerabilities—captures the real dangers of unauthorized installations. The other outcomes listed—more productivity, lower license costs, or improved security—don’t reflect the typical risks and often conflict with actual governance and security practices.