As organisations rely more on cloud-based systems, AI tools and other online tools can potentially open organisations up to cybersecurity and information security risks. Although cybersecurity and information security are sometimes used interchangeably, there are differences between the two and their approaches.
But what do information security and cybersecurity include, and which one is more important?
What is Information Security?
Information security is focused on protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information within an organisation. Information security is the process of identifying what confidential information is critical and could be the target of a cyberattack.
Information security controls include:
- Intrusion detection systems
- Firewalls
- Data leaks and breaches
- Data theft
- Access control
- Unauthorised changes to digital information
How is Information Security Essential?
Cybercriminals are more inclined to target personal information your organisation stores in the event of a cyber-attack. This is why there are various laws in place that focus on securing personal information stored within an organisation.
This type of sensitive information includes (but is not limited to):
- Name and surname
- Email address
- Phone numbers
- Banking details
Information security professionals are essential to organisations, they focus on identifying and prioritising sensitive information to support cybersecurity professionals to implement effective IT security.
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is focused on protecting electronic and mobile devices against cyber-attacks and deals directly with identifying and mitigating potential attacks including:
- Ransomware
- Spyware
- Profile hacking
- Phishing
- DDoS attack
- Malware
Cybersecurity ensures an organisations information and digital assets are safe and protected. Informational property is essential in todays digital world and is the reason it is consistently preyed upon.
The Evolution of Cybersecurity
As government organisations started to prioritise the security of sensitive information, information security quickly became part of the cybersecurity scope. Whereas traditionally cybersecurity only focused on computer security training, it has now expanded to include:
- Network security
- Malware
- Phishing
Training now encompasses various other cyber threats that were not initially part of the skills necessary for a cybersecurity professional.
Collaboration Between Information Security and Cybersecurity
As cybersecurity has evolved to include various information security principles and approaches, it is still essential for organisations to have information security professionals on their teams. Both professions provide specific skills and approaches to different threats, and this has created an environment where they can successfully collaborate to ensure the security of data within organisations.
How WWISE can Protect Your Sensitive Information
Our WWISE cyber security and information security experts ensure your organisation is continuously monitored to discover and mitigate risks exposing your organisation’s sensitive data. Our SOC services minimise your risk of third-party breaches and cyber-attacks.
Speak to one of our Information and Cyber security experts today on 012 644 0142 or send us an email on admin@wwise.co.za.