In order to keep the competitive edge gained by our extensive research

In order to keep the competitive edge gained by our extensive research and innovative methods, information security must remain a high priority for our company. The information stored on our networks including everything from research data, to training materials, to company memos - could potentially be very valuable to competitors and foreign governments alike. All employees must work to protect company information, not only through passwords and data encryption, but also through the physical control of company assets, such as laptops.

If all of the above statements are true, which of the following statements can be most directly inferred?

A. Passwords are often inadequate forms of security, leading to the need for "physical control" over data storage objects such as laptops.

B. Employees are not allowed to discuss their research with anyone other than fellow company employees.

C. Company information carries a high monetary value, making the network attractive to hackers.

D. The company is willing to go to great expense to protect its information.

E. Employees must attend classes to learn to use the latest security software.

Official Explanation:

Situation: A company prioritizes information security in order to protect its ability to compete.

Reasoning: What inference can be drawn from this information? The theme running through the entire passage is the importance of maintaining secrecy. The first and second sentences contain reasons for secrecy, and the third an insistence that employees use a variety of means to maintain it. The correct answer, then, will be an extension of the argument for secrecy.

Passwords and physical control are both methods recommended for maintaining secrecy, but one is not prioritized over the other in the passage.

This sentence is a logical extension of the company's policies about information security. Not discussing research with anyone other than company employees is another method of maintaining secrecy.

Though the passage mentions the value of company information, it does not specify that the value is monetary, nor is the passage specific about fears of attracting hackers.

The passage does not discuss real or potential costs for maintaining information security.

The passage concentrates on the importance of information security, rather than the training of employees to maintain it.


The correct answer is B.