Which describes the main RMF roles and their responsibilities?

• A. RMF Lead coordinates activities; Security Control Assessor conducts testing; Information System Owner owns the system; Information System Security Officer oversees security; Authorizing Official approves operation
• B. Authorizing Official approves operation
• C. Information System Owner approves operation
• D. Security Control Assessor conducts testing

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is understanding how RMF distributes responsibility across five key roles, each with a distinct function in managing risk. The description that includes coordinating the overall RMF process, testing the security controls, owning the system, overseeing security, and approving operation covers the full set of responsibilities defined in RMF. Specifically, the RMF Lead keeps the process moving and ensures all steps and artifacts are on track; the Security Control Assessor performs testing and compiles evidence of control effectiveness; the Information System Owner is accountable for the system and its security requirements; the Information System Security Officer supervises security measures and ongoing compliance; and the Authorizing Official makes the risk-based decision to authorize operation. This comprehensive pairing aligns with how RMF assigns duties to ensure a system is properly secured before and during operation. The other options mention only one role, which doesn’t reflect the collaborative, multi-role nature of RMF.