Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of IT controls?

Enhancing data processing speed is not typically considered a characteristic of IT controls. IT controls are primarily focused on ensuring the security and reliability of information systems, which include aspects such as data confidentiality, data integrity, and system availability.

Data confidentiality involves protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access, which is a critical aspect of IT security. Maintaining the integrity of data refers to ensuring that information is accurate and remains unaltered during processing and storage, safeguarding against errors and unauthorized changes. Guaranteeing availability of systems ensures that users have timely access to information and resources when needed, which is essential for business continuity and operational efficiency.

While enhancing data processing speed can be a beneficial outcome of efficient IT systems, it does not fall under the core objectives of IT controls, which are primarily concerned with protecting and managing data rather than how quickly it is processed. Therefore, the correct response identifies the option that does not align with the fundamental characteristics of IT controls.