It is common to use both terms (Cybersecurity and Information Security) when referring generically to information protection.
Although their meaning is similar, it is in their scope that there is a substantial difference.
What is Cybersecurity?
It is the protection of computer systems against theft, attacks (cyber threats), unauthorized access to data (phishing), or damage to hardware or software (malware), as well as the interruption or disorientation of the services they provide.
What is Information Security?
It is the protection of information, in the sense of preserving the value it has for an individual or an organization, ensuring its confidentiality, integrity, availability, authenticity and legality.
Main differences between Cybersecurity and Information Security
Cybersecurity
- Concern with technological infrastructure, computer systems and networks;
- Central scope in online attacks such as hacking, phishing or malware;
- Establish defense mechanisms to deal with sophisticated cyber threats;
- It implements physical safeguards such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems and antivirus;
- Requires monitoring for vulnerabilities and possible violations.
Information Security
- It focuses on protecting confidential information, regardless of physical or digital medium;
- It focuses on protecting data from unauthorized access or disclosure, regardless of the method of attack;
- It focuses on policies, procedures, and practices that protect information assets;
- It focuses on data encryption, access control, and user identity management;
- Ensures compliance with privacy regulations and legal obligations in force for the protection of personal data;
Cybersecurity protects digital systems and networks by preventing unauthorized access through firewalls, antivirus, and network monitoring.
Yes, it's a very important component that helps organizations mitigate risks, but it's not enough.
Information security goes further.
It aims to protect stored data (on physical or digital devices), protect data transactions between systems (through encryption), and adopt measures to control access to this information (physical or digital) and train employees.
Views information protection from an internal and external perspective.
So, although they have the same objective, cybersecurity and information security have different scopes.
The importance of Integrated Information Security
Nowadays, when cyber-attacks are multiplying, and even critical infrastructure and state services are targets of large-scale attacks, some of which are successful, we realize how important it is for any entity to take precautions and safeguard its business information.
Only the combination of these two aspects (Cybersecurity and Information Security) can improve defense and data protection, as it prevents vulnerabilities, improves detection mechanisms, mitigates risks, and causes awareness among the actors involved, making each of them an “agent" of information protection and security.
The constant monitoring of potential risks and the updating of security protocols are aspects combined through these two aspects, proactively helping entities to be better prepared, to be more resilient, and thereby increase the level of confidence of their customers.
Only close collaboration between all the departments of an organization can result in quick, timely reactions and future learning that should be incorporated immediately into the organization's mindset.
It is therefore vital to constantly update both safety plans and incident response action plans, as well as provide regular training for all employees.
Bear in mind that investment in cybersecurity is crucial for any organization today.
Next Steps
The DL65/2021 of July 30 established a set of obligations in terms of cybersecurity for public entities.
Before January 2023, in addition to appointing a person responsible for security, it was also necessary to draw up a security plan and prepare, in the event of an incident, corrective measures and the appropriate reports to the CNCS.
The CNCS has already fined 68 operators for putting critical infrastructure and essential services (e.g., water, energy, and communications) at risk.
However, it is important to mention that every year (until January) it is necessary to send the safety report to the CNCS and that it should be a constant concern to train employees and update procedures in light of occurrences and technological evolution.
Have you already started preparing the 2023 Safety Report to send to the CNCS?
How Uniksystem can help?
Uniksystem will be able to support you in four dimensions:
- Information security training for employees;
- Elaboration of the Security Plan;
- Elaboration of the Safety Report;
- Information Security Action Plans
by Ricardo Barros – Chief Customer Success Officer @Uniksystem
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