Which of the following describes external forces that threaten security?

The concept of external forces that threaten security is best described by the term "threats." In cybersecurity, a threat refers to any potential danger that could exploit a vulnerability in a system, resulting in harm to an organization or individual. This includes a wide range of factors, such as cybercriminal activities, natural disasters, insider threats, and even equipment failures that originate from outside the organization.

Identifying threats is crucial for organizations as it helps them understand and anticipate the range of challenges they might face, allowing them to implement appropriate security measures. By recognizing threats, organizations can better design their defenses, improve their overall security posture, and increase resilience against potential attacks.

In contrast, vulnerabilities refer to weaknesses in a system that can be exploited by threats. Risks denote the potential for loss or damage when a threat exploits a vulnerability. Attacks are the actual execution of a threat, aimed at compromising security. Each of these terms is related but has a distinct definition in the context of cybersecurity. Thus, understanding threats as external forces is fundamental for developing effective security strategies.