Threat is something, like hazard, against which assets are being protected. Threat si any event that may cause loss, unavailability, permanently destroy or damage to an asset, process or plan. Threats are external factors that an organization cannot directly control, but it can take measures to prepare for.
A threat can be an attack, violence, sabotage, espionage, theft, a natural disaster, any criminal activity, changes in market conditions, and similar events. A threat can damage or permanently destroy assets, processes, or plans. Threats can arise randomly, unintentionally, or intentionally. Typically, they are external influences that we cannot control from within but can harm a company’s assets. Threats can also be internal, unintentional, caused by human error, lack of knowledge, or failure to follow procedures. Threat analysis is used in risk management, as well as in information or physical security.
Threat analysis is part of risk analysis and is usually used in information security or work safety.
- Examples of IT threats: All kinds of social ransomware, worms, engineering attacks, and viruses are considered possible threats.
- Examples of threats in OSH: natural disasters, danger of explosion, an explosion that can destroy or damage the building.
Threat vs. Danger
While the terms “threats” and “hazards” are sometimes used interchangeably, professionals make a clear distinction between them:
Threat
- A threat refers to an actual event or phenomenon that occurs.
- For instance, a specific attack (like a DDoS attack) that targets a vulnerability is considered a threat.
Danger
- Danger, on the other hand, has a more permanent character.
- It signifies certain conditions that create the potential for a threat or risk.
- For example, the risk of injury associated with a particular machine represents a danger.
Threats can cause various adverse outcomes
- Threats have the potential to result in injury, property damage, business disruption, or environmental harm.
- Organizations typically lack control over whether a threat or danger occurs or materializes.
- These events often arise from external factors beyond an organization’s direct influence.
- Early threat identification allows organizations to be prepared.
- By anticipating threats, they can mitigate their impact through preventive measures.
- Identifying threats is a crucial step in risk analysis.
- It helps pinpoint vulnerabilities and assess potential consequences.
- By identifying the threat in advance, the organization can prepare for the threat and mitigate its impact
- A threat is something that your assets should be protected against
How manage threats using Aptien GRC
- The threat catalog, where you keep information about possible threats, is part of the risk management system
- Threats are a source of risk, so you evaluate and manage risks based on them
- By anticipating threats, they can mitigate their impact through preventive measures.
