Which of the following best defines an incident in the CMMC context?

In the context of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), an incident is best defined as a violation or imminent threat to computer security policies. This definition encapsulates both the actions that compromise the integrity of systems and the potential risks that could lead to such breaches. Recognizing an incident this way allows organizations to promptly respond to threats that may not yet have resulted in a successful breach but could do so if not addressed.

Understanding incidents as violations or imminent threats emphasizes the proactive aspect of cybersecurity, as it encourages organizations to be vigilant about identifying and mitigating potential risks before they escalate. This approach aligns with the CMMC's overall goal of enhancing security practices and posture within organizations, particularly those working with DoD data.

While the other definitions presented lack the necessary depth or immediacy regarding threats, this definition highlights the importance of recognizing not just actual breaches, but also situations that could lead to them, thus portraying a more comprehensive view of cybersecurity incidents.