What is a threat in terms of cybersecurity?

In cybersecurity, a threat is defined as anything that has the potential to cause harm to an asset. This encompasses a wide range of possibilities, including malicious actions, human error, natural disasters, and more. By recognizing that a threat is not limited to just one type of harm or source, such as a person or software vulnerability, we acknowledge the broad spectrum of risks that information systems face.

In this context, assets can include data, hardware, software, and even entire networks. Understanding threats in this way allows cybersecurity professionals to effectively identify, assess, and mitigate the risks associated with them, ensuring the protection of valuable resources. This holistic perspective is crucial for developing comprehensive security strategies that account for various potential sources of harm.