What is a primary function of firewalls in the context of investment firms?

• A. Facilitating faster transactions with clients
• B. Preventing unlawful access to sensitive information
• C. Increasing the number of trades processed per day
• D. Enhancing client relationship management

Answer: (B)

In the context of investment firms, firewalls play a crucial role in safeguarding sensitive information by preventing unlawful access. This is particularly important in an industry that handles large volumes of personal and financial data. Firewalls serve as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, effectively monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.

By blocking unauthorized access attempts, firewalls help protect against data breaches, cyberattacks, and potential financial loss. This security measure ensures that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information, maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of client data, which is paramount in the investment sector.

While faster transactions, increased trade processing, and enhanced client relationship management are important aspects of the operations of investment firms, these do not directly relate to the core function of firewalls. The primary focus of firewalls is on cybersecurity and protecting the firm’s information infrastructure from threats.