In cybersecurity, what is defined as an adverse event in an information system?

In the context of cybersecurity, an incident is defined as an adverse event in an information system. This encompasses any occurrence that jeopardizes the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of information or information systems. An incident could involve unauthorized access, data breaches, malware infections, or service interruptions, all of which can significantly impact an organization’s operations and security posture.

Identifying an event specifically as an incident is crucial for response and recovery efforts. It facilitates the implementation of incident response plans to mitigate damage and restore normal operations. This classification allows teams to prioritize their actions and allocate resources efficiently to address the situation.

The other terms, although related to cybersecurity, do not capture the broader implications or the urgency of the adverse effects on information systems as accurately. An event can refer to any observable occurrence, not necessarily adverse. An alert signals a condition that requires attention but doesn’t inherently indicate an adverse event has occurred. An attack more specifically denotes an attempt to cause harm or breach security, rather than encompassing all potential adverse events a system might experience.