Information security vs Cybersecurity has been a popular online debate amongst technology geeks who believe that both are the same. Though peas of the same pod, both cybersecurity and information security are interrelated, aren’t the same. Knowing the difference between both will give you clarity and why both are equally important.
We need to understand the definition of information security and cyber security, to understand the difference between them.
Information Security
Information Security is the process of securing information of an organisation from external threats like malware, ransomware, Trojans etc. It implies a set of standard processes and policies to protect system data and prevent unauthorised access to company sensitive information.
It includes protection of data stored in computer systems, preventing leaking of data from vulnerabilities in the system architecture, web browser data, data on smartphones of the employees, and data stored on the cloud network.
It prevents data from scrutiny, tampering or alterations. The aim of information security is to ensure the privacy of sensitive data including the company’s top goals, financial information, and client data.
Cyber Security
Cyber security is the process of securing management systems, networks, application software, and devices like computers, laptops, smartphones, iPad, tablets etc. from cyberattacks.
It includes the implementation of strategies and plans to overcome loopholes in the computer systems, internet and cloud network, and safeguard systems from external threats. The threat landscape includes cyberattacks like ransomware, e-mail phishing, malware, Trojan viruses, and cloud jacking.
Cybercriminals and need for cyber security
With the continually evolving information technology, the landscape of cybercriminals is also evolving. The malicious actors are on the lookout for weak systems that can be hacked at ease. Little do they care about the size of a business; hackers’ focus is financial gain from the data compromised. They achieve it either by selling company sensitive data to their rivals or by money laundering form of cyberattack called ransomware.
Hence, it is essential to protect information security management systems whose security guards are fragmenting with technological advancements. The already complex structures are further becoming difficult with technology. It is therefore essential to simplify system structures and plan strategies to safeguard it from breaches of data.
Let’s have a look at the difference between the both by a comparative analysis of Information Security vs Cybersecurity:
Information Security vs Cybersecurity
1) Definition
Information Security means protecting data from leakage, while cyber security means achieving a secure system architecture to safeguard information from a cyberattack.
2) Type of data
Cybersecurity deals with digital data or data stored in electronic devices. On the contrary, information security deals with protecting the availability, confidentiality, and integrity of data irrespective of its form.
3) Information Security Consultant vs Cybersecurity consultant
An information security consultant is a trained professional who deals with data protection and preventing unwanted access to it. The job of an information security professional is to find loopholes in the system that can lead to data breaches.
A cybersecurity consultant deals with finding risks in the computer networks, networks and devices that might lead to a cyberattack. They implement plans and strategies to overcome system architecture vulnerabilities that might have caused a severe cyber threat.
4) Examples
a) Information Security examples
Examples of information security include –
Procedural controls:
It deals with the detecting and minimising of risks to physical devices like a computer network, devices, compliance training, security framework, and incident response plans and procedures.
Access controls:
It deals with access given to employees and management as per hierarchy to prevent any data breach.
Technical controls:
It deals with multi-factor authentication, anti-virus, and firewall to secure data access, and prevent hacking.
Compliance controls:
It deals with compliance with laws, regulatory policies, and standard procedures.
b) Cyber Security examples
Examples of information security include –
Network security:
It is the practice of securing networks from unauthorised access, misuse of data, interference, and interruption of services.
Application security:
A process that involves detecting, fixing, and enhancing the security of applications to prevent data, or code within the applications from being stolen.
Cloud security:
It comprises a combination of policies, procedures, controls, and technologies that work together to protect cloud systems and networks.
Critical infrastructure:
It deals with different foundation tools that offer security services like virus scanners, anti-malware software, intrusion prevention systems, etc.
Overlapping between Information Security & Cybersecurity
1) Both information security and cybersecurity deal with the safeguarding of data. The value of information and its protection is a common cause of both.
2) Most of the time, the technical support doesn’t have an information security professional on board. Hence, cybersecurity professionals are gaining expertise in information security too.
Which is better, information security and cyber security?
Both are equally important and essential for safeguarding a company’s computer networks, system architecture and data against a possible cyberattack.
In certain cases, an information security consultant can assist a cybersecurity consultant to make data protection a priority. Cybersecurity professionals will then provide a robust plan of strategies to achieve data protection by overcoming vulnerabilities in the system architecture.
With the increasing cyber threats and new malicious actors creating havoc, information security and cyber security are equally essential for businesses.
Australian Signals Directorate
As per the directions of the Australian Government, the Australian Signals Directorate defends Australia from global threats. It plays a key role in the advancement of the national interest through foreign signals intelligence, offensive cyber operations, and cyber security.
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