What would be the major consequence of a malfunctioning intrusion detection system?

A malfunctioning intrusion detection system can lead to significant weaknesses in security by creating gaps that can be exploited by unauthorized individuals. Intrusion detection systems are designed to monitor for suspicious activities and alert security personnel to potential breaches. When these systems fail, they may not detect intrusions or provide false indications of security being intact. This lack of proper monitoring increases the vulnerability of an organization to breaches, as potential threats may go unnoticed, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive areas or data.

In contrast, the other options imply positive outcomes or reductions in risk that do not align with the implications of a malfunctioning security system. For instance, lower security costs would not necessarily be a benefit of a malfunctioning system—as failure to detect threats can lead to higher costs in loss and recovery efforts. Similarly, a malfunctioning system is unlikely to improve safety perception among personnel or clients, who would likely feel more insecure knowing there is a failure in protective measures. Lastly, operational efficiency is likely compromised when security systems are unreliable, as resources may need to be allocated to address potential incidents or to compensate for the lack of effective monitoring and response capabilities.