What are Compensating Controls?
Compensating Controls are alternative security measures implemented when standard or primary controls cannot be applied. They are designed to reduce risk to an acceptable level when constraints such as technical limitations or cost prevent full implementation.
These controls are often used in regulated environments where compliance requirements must still be met, even if ideal controls are not feasible. They are commonly documented within Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) programs.
What are Compensating Controls used for?
Compensating controls are used to address gaps in security by providing equivalent or partial protection. For example, if Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) cannot be implemented, enhanced monitoring through SIEM and stricter Access Control policies may be used instead.
They help maintain Security Posture while balancing operational constraints. Organizations rely on compensating controls to meet compliance standards such as ISO/IEC 27001 or NIST SP 800-53.
