How is an adversary defined in cybersecurity?

In the context of cybersecurity, an adversary is defined as an individual or group that seeks to cause harm to information assets. This definition encompasses a broad range of malicious actors including cybercriminals, hacktivists, and state-sponsored attackers, all of whom aim to exploit vulnerabilities in systems for various reasons, such as financial gain, political motives, or sabotage.

Understanding the role of adversaries is crucial for cybersecurity professionals, as it helps in shaping defensive strategies, threat assessments, and response protocols. By identifying potential adversaries and their motivations, organizations can better prepare themselves against various attack vectors and enhance their overall security posture. The other options do not align with this definition, as they focus on protective roles or trusted collaborations rather than the intent to harm information systems.