How is cybersecurity best defined?

Cybersecurity is best defined as protecting information assets by addressing threats. This definition encompasses the core purpose of cybersecurity, which is to safeguard the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information throughout its lifecycle.

In a digital landscape, organizations face various threats including malware, phishing, and insider threats, all of which can compromise sensitive data. By addressing these threats, cybersecurity measures help to ensure the data is not only safe from external attacks but also protected from internal risks.

Protection of information assets involves a combination of technology, processes, and practices focused on reducing risk and managing incidents effectively. This holistic approach goes beyond merely securing physical assets, implementing access controls, or monitoring employee activity, as it integrates various aspects of threat detection, prevention, and response to protect the organization’s critical information resources.