(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What are the means by which a threat actor carries out their objectives known as?

1. Threat Pathways

2. Threat Vectors

3. Threat Channels

4. Attack Vectors

The correct answer is: Threat Vectors

The correct term for the means by which a threat actor carries out their objectives is "Threat Vectors." This concept refers to the various paths or methods that an attacker may use to exploit vulnerabilities in a system, network, or application to gain unauthorized access or cause harm. Understanding threat vectors is crucial in cybersecurity as it helps professionals identify potential weaknesses in their defenses and develop strategies to mitigate these risks. Threat vectors may include different types of attacks, such as phishing emails, malware distribution, social engineering tactics, and more, which all exemplify how attackers dynamically adapt their strategies based on the target environment. Recognizing these vectors allows cybersecurity practitioners to implement appropriate countermeasures, thus strengthening their overall security posture. The other options, while similar in how they reference pathways of attack, either lack the precise terminology used within cybersecurity or refer to broader contexts that do not specifically address the means of carrying out attacks as effectively as "Threat Vectors" does.