What is the purpose of a countermeasure in information security?

The purpose of a countermeasure in information security is to reduce system vulnerabilities. Countermeasures are specific actions or strategies implemented to mitigate risks and protect information systems from potential threats, attacks, or unauthorized access. By identifying vulnerabilities within a system, organizations can use countermeasures effectively to strengthen their security posture, making it more difficult for adversaries to exploit these weaknesses.

While enhancing data encryption techniques can be considered a type of countermeasure, the broader objective is to comprehensively address and reduce vulnerabilities across the entire system rather than just focusing on encryption. Increasing data storage capacity does not directly relate to security measures and may not contribute to reducing vulnerabilities at all. Similarly, analyzing user behavior is a component of understanding security risks but is primarily a method for detection rather than a countermeasure itself. Thus, the correct answer underscores the primary goal of countermeasures in the context of improving overall security by reducing vulnerabilities.