Cyber security vs information security – is there really a difference between those two terms? Many people often interchange those terms. Indeed, they are both associated with cybersecurity. Many regards those terms as synonyms even some of those in the security field.

Yet, those two terms are not the same. Moreover, their definitions vary a lot. It’s important for any organization to understand each term. Why? Because they each address different kinds of security. Thus, a proper understanding of cyber security vs information security is important. That is before investing in any of them.

In simple words, one of those two terms deals with defending data in cyberspace. Meanwhile, the other one deals with generally protecting the data. Sounds simple? Beginners find those thoughts hard to grasp. First, let’s define those two terms.

Cyber security

NIST defined cybersecurity as the “ability to protect or defend the use of cyberspace from cyber attacks.” Reputable organizations have their own definitions of cybersecurity. Yet, most of them are similar. 

In other words, cybersecurity deals with outside attacks. It protects anything from business organizations to personal devices. The devices cybersecurity protects mainly include computers, servers, and programs. 

Moreover, it also protects data in a digital form. One thing that differentiates cybersecurity is it specifies in digital files. In short, protecting digital information is considered cybersecurity.

Information security 

The first thing that comes to our mind when we think of information security is computers. Also, digital information. However, there are many forms available in storing data. In a simplified manner, information security prevents unauthorized access to data. 

Information security protects the data whether it is stored or on transfer. Furthermore, it is the practice of protecting your data regardless of its form. If you protect a filing cabinet of important documents, that is information security. Protecting your database? That is information security.

Moreover, this term covers three aspects, namely:

• Confidentiality – blocking all unauthorized access to data. Whether it is personal info or high-value

• Integrity – the data must be in the correct order. Furthermore, this means guarding against improper modification or destruction of data

• Availability – ensuring that authorized personnel has the ability to access data anytime

These three aspects are commonly known as C.I.A.

Differences 

To emphasize, cybersecurity protects an organization against attacks in cyberspace. Meanwhile, information security deals with protecting the data regardless of its form. Furthermore, cybersecurity deals with cybercrimes, law enforcement, and cyberfrauds. But, information security prevents unauthorized access. Also, it prevents improper modification and disclosure.

APT-trained professionals handle cybersecurity. Meanwhile, information security lays the foundation of data security. Also, it prioritizes resources before eliminating threats.

The overlap between these two terms causes justified confusion. Yet, the main concern between these two is the value of data. It is important to understand that unauthorized access to data damages an organization. Thus, establishing a security framework is critical for all businesses.

These two terms might be different. Yet, they are both equally important to your organization.