Information Security
Information Security
Information Security, often referred to as InfoSec, is the practice of protecting information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. In today’s digital world, data is one of the most valuable assets, and securing it is crucial for individuals and organizations. Information Security ensures confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data, commonly known as the CIA triad.
Asset
An asset is anything of value that needs protection. In the context of Information Security, assets can be data, systems, hardware, software, or intellectual property.
Threat
A threat is any potential danger that can exploit a vulnerability and cause harm to an asset. Threats can be intentional (such as hackers) or unintentional (such as natural disasters or human errors).
Threat Actor
A threat actor is an individual, group, or entity that intentionally or unintentionally poses a threat to an asset. Examples include hackers, cybercriminals, malicious insiders, and nation-state actors.
Vulnerability
A vulnerability is a weakness in a system, network, or application that can be exploited by a threat actor to gain unauthorized access or cause damage.
Attack Vector
An attack vector is the method or pathway used by a threat actor to exploit a vulnerability. Common attack vectors include phishing emails, malware, SQL injection, and social engineering.
Attack Surface
The attack surface refers to the total number of points where an attacker can try to exploit a system. A smaller attack surface means fewer vulnerabilities and reduced risk.
Likelihood
Likelihood is the probability of a threat exploiting a vulnerability and causing harm to an asset. This is assessed based on historical data, current security measures, and threat intelligence.
Risk
Risk is the potential impact of a threat exploiting a vulnerability, considering both the likelihood and severity of the consequences. Organizations manage risks by implementing security measures, monitoring threats, and mitigating vulnerabilities.
