Which of the following indicators is LEAST likely to trigger a reassessment of an existing vendor?
Correct Answer: D
This answer is correct because a change at outsourcer due to merger and acquisition (M&A) is the least likely indicator to trigger a reassessment of an existing vendor. This is because the outsourcer is not the direct vendor of the organization, but rather a third party that the vendor uses to perform some of its services. Therefore, the impact of the change at the outsourcer on the vendor's performance and risk level may not be significant or immediate. However, the other indicators (A, B, and C) are more likely to trigger a reassessment of an existing vendor, as they directly affect the vendor's operations, capabilities, and compliance status. For example:
* A change in vendor location or use of new fourth parties may introduce new risks such as geopolitical, regulatory, or cybersecurity risks that need to be evaluated and mitigated.
* A change in scope of existing work may alter the vendor's access to the organization's data or systems, which may require additional security measures and controls to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the information assets.
* A change in regulation that impacts service provider requirements may impose new obligations or standards on the vendor that need to be verified and monitored to ensure compliance and avoid penalties or fines. References:
* How to Conduct a Successful Vendor Risk Assessment in 9 Steps, Case IQ
* Why You Need to Reassess Vendor Risk on an Ongoing Basis, ThirdPartyTrust
* Vendor Assessment and Evaluation Guide, Smartsheet