subrisks

A subrisk is a component or a breakdown of a larger, more encompassing risk. When a primary risk is identified, it is often beneficial to analyze its potential sources and contributing factors. These individual sources or factors are then considered subrisks. Understanding subrisks allows for a more granular and detailed assessment of the overall risk landscape. By identifying and analyzing subrisks, organizations can develop more targeted and effective mitigation strategies. For example, if the primary risk is "data breach," subrisks might include "insider threat," "phishing attack," "software vulnerability," or "physical theft of devices." Each of these subrisks has its own unique causes, impacts, and potential mitigation measures. The process of identifying subrisks often involves brainstorming, risk workshops, and expert judgment. It is a crucial step in comprehensive risk management, moving beyond a high-level view to understand the specific mechanisms through which a risk might materialize. This detailed understanding can lead to more efficient allocation of resources for risk reduction efforts, as specific subrisks can be addressed with tailored solutions. Analyzing subrisks also helps in quantifying the likelihood and impact of the primary risk more accurately.