(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What do we call the combination of a threat and a vulnerability in cybersecurity?

1. Threat Assessment

2. Risks

3. Security Gaps

4. Exposure

The correct answer is: Risks

The combination of a threat and a vulnerability is referred to as "Risks" in cybersecurity. A threat represents a potential danger that could exploit a vulnerability, which is a weakness in a system or process. When both elements are present, it creates a risk, which is the likelihood that the vulnerability could be exploited by the threat, leading to a potential loss or damage. Understanding this relationship is crucial in cybersecurity as it helps organizations prioritize their security efforts. By identifying threats and vulnerabilities, organizations can assess their risk levels and implement appropriate security measures to mitigate those risks. This risk assessment process is fundamental for effective cybersecurity strategies and resource allocation. Other terms like threat assessment and security gaps relate to specific aspects of cybersecurity but do not accurately describe the combination of a threat and a vulnerability. "Exposure" also refers to a state where a system or resource is susceptible to risks, but it does not encapsulate the idea of the potential harm that arises when a threat leverages a vulnerability. The term "Risks" clearly denotes this critical interaction between threats and vulnerabilities, making it the correct answer.