What does an incident response plan generally include?

An incident response plan is a critical component of an organization's overall security strategy, structured to prepare for and effectively respond to cybersecurity incidents. The correct option highlights that an effective incident response plan typically encompasses response plans, management responsibilities, and communication plans.

Response plans outline the procedures that will be followed during an incident to ensure a structured and efficient approach to identifying, containing, and remediating an incident. Management responsibilities clarify the roles of team members and ensure accountability throughout the incident response process, promoting a coordinated effort. Communication plans are essential for keeping both internal stakeholders and external parties informed, which can include regulatory bodies or customers, thus allowing for transparency and effective information sharing during a crisis.

While training for normal operational tasks, general security policies, and a simple list of contacts can be beneficial for an organization, they do not encompass the full scope of an incident response plan. The essence of the plan focuses on preparedness and systematic response strategies tailored to mitigate incidents effectively, which is why the combination of response plans, management responsibilities, and communication strategies represents the core elements of a comprehensive incident response plan.