How is risk defined in the context of cybersecurity?

In the context of cybersecurity, risk is defined as the likelihood of a harmful event occurring, combined with the potential impact that event could have on an organization's assets, operations, or individuals. This definition highlights the importance of assessing both the probability of cyber threats, such as data breaches or system compromises, and the consequences that would follow if those threats were realized.

Understanding risk in this manner allows organizations to prioritize their cybersecurity efforts and allocate resources effectively. By focusing on the likelihood of harmful events, cybersecurity professionals can implement proactive measures to mitigate threats before they occur, and create a more resilient security posture. This approach is central to risk management frameworks commonly used in cybersecurity, which emphasize the evaluation of potential threats and vulnerabilities alongside their respective impacts on the organization.

When considering the other choices, while financial loss is a component of risk, it does not encompass the full definition. Preparedness for a disaster pertains to recovery and response strategies rather than the assessment of risk itself. Lastly, the number of vulnerabilities in a system is simply one factor that contributes to overall risk; it doesn’t capture the likelihood of those vulnerabilities being exploited or the potential impact of that exploitation.