What can be an outcome of failing to remediate vulnerabilities identified in a scan?

When vulnerabilities identified in a scan are not remediated, the most significant outcome is an increased risk of security incidents. Vulnerabilities can serve as entry points for attackers, allowing them to exploit weaknesses in the system. The failure to address these vulnerabilities means that organizations remain exposed to potential breaches, data loss, and other types of security incidents.

This heightened risk can lead to various negative consequences for the organization, including financial losses, reputational damage, and legal ramifications. By neglecting to remediate identified vulnerabilities, the overall security posture of the organization is compromised, directly impacting its ability to protect sensitive information and maintain business continuity.

In contrast, outcomes like enhanced employee productivity, lower operational costs, and improved customer trust are generally associated with effective vulnerability management and remediation strategies. Organizations that proactively address vulnerabilities often benefit from a more secure environment, leading to better operational efficiency and higher trust levels among customers.