10 Types of Information Security

Digital threats affect everyone; they’re everywhere — from critical business systems to personal mobile applications. To help protect our privacy, data and assets, understanding the different types of information security threats, how they operate, their potential impacts and ways to mitigate them is essential.

Another aspect of information security, especially for individuals with a drive to make an impact in the field, is to understand the different types of roles available. Enrolling in an advanced degree program, such as a master’s degree in information security management program, can help students learn about cutting-edge technology, stay up to date on the latest trends, and learn new skills to combat and prevent cyber-related risks.

What Is Information Security?

The primary aim of information security (InfoSec), is to protect information and data. Information security is a practice that’s increasingly important in the digital age, as unauthorized access or misuse of information can cause disruption.

For a business, various types of threats to information security can bring operations to a halt, affecting the ability to serve customers and generate revenue. For individuals, it can lead to privacy issues, including personal information being compromised and identities being stolen.

Information security encompasses a range of strategies, processes and tools designed to safeguard data confidentiality, integrity and availability.

Confidentiality: The primary aim is to keep sensitive information away from unauthorized individuals.
Integrity: The key focus is on maintaining the accuracy and reliability of data throughout its life cycle.
Availability: The goal is to help ensure that information and data is accessible only to authorized users when needed.

Today, separating the cyber and physical worlds is becoming harder. According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), with the growth of internet-connected devices comes increased vulnerabilities in cyber-physical systems (CPSs). As the lines between the cyber and physical worlds blur, information security professionals must adapt to address the threats and help safeguard critical data for their employers.

10 Types of Threats to Information Security

With every new technological innovation, cybercriminals adapt and develop methods to exploit vulnerabilities. The different types of information security risks range from advanced persistent threats (APTs) that can lurk undetected in systems for prolonged periods to ransomware attacks that can paralyze entire networks. The different types of threats to information security range in sophistication and impact, with each posing a unique challenge.

1. Advanced Persistent Threats

APTs are stealthy cyberattacks designed to gain prolonged access to systems. Through APTs, cybercriminals gather intelligence, while the APTs themselves remain undetected as they infiltrate and spread across target networks. This type of information security threat is often used in espionage, data theft or sabotage. State-sponsored cybercriminals seeking sensitive information from rival states or intellectual property from large organizations often execute these attacks.

2. Cryptojacking

Cryptojacking is a type of information security attack in which an attacker covertly uses a victim’s computer to mine cryptocurrency. A cryptojacking attack is successful when a victim unwittingly installs a program with malicious scripts. The scripts, which can derive from suspicious email links or compromised websites, then grant the attacker access to the victim’s device and can lead to the system slowing down due to overload and crashes as cryptocurrency is mined.

3. Distributed Denial-of-Service Attack

A distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack disrupts online services by overwhelming a target with excessive, fraudulent traffic. The primary aim of a DDoS attack is to render systems inaccessible to legitimate users. Unlike a basic denial-of-service (DoS) attack, which uses a single source, a DDoS attack employs a botnet — a network of infected devices under the attacker’s control — to cause more damage. This coordinated surge in traffic can severely impair or even crash targeted servers, leading to slowdowns, outages and significant user frustration.

4. Insider Threats

Trusted individuals within organizations present distinct security risks. Employees, contractors and partners may misuse their access privileges. This can be intentional. For example, a disgruntled employee may be motivated to intentionally sabotage their employer’s systems, putting sensitive data at risk. An insider threat can also be unintentional, such as an employee’s negligence in following information security practices. Since insiders use legitimate credentials, detection is often difficult.

5. Malware

Malware often plays a role in nearly every modern cyberattack. It’s designed to infiltrate, damage or disrupt systems, often giving attackers unauthorized access. This type of threat includes viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware and spyware. Malware can steal sensitive data, cause system downtime, compromise functionality, erase critical files or steal valuable information.

6. Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

In a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack, an attacker intercepts and manipulates communication between two parties without their knowledge. An MITM attack allows the attacker to bypass cybersecurity measures and access information. Cybercriminals commonly launch these attacks by eavesdropping on unsecured Wi-Fi networks and intercepting data exchanged between users to steal, alter or redirect sensitive information.

7. Password Attack

Password attacks involve cybercriminals attempting to obtain a user’s login credentials. These attacks can take several forms. Social engineering tactics may be used to deceive individuals into disclosing sensitive information, often through phishing or spoofing. Alternatively, attackers may employ brute force techniques, systematically trying numerous password combinations until they find the correct one.

8. Ransomware

Ransomware blocks access to files, systems or networks. This type of threat renders computers or data unusable until a ransom is paid, leading to significant disruptions and potential data loss. Ransomware typically infects systems when users open attachments, click ads, follow malicious links or visit compromised websites. Once installed, it restricts access, often encrypting data on drives or networks. Victims usually become aware of the infection only when access is lost or ransom demands appear.

9. Social Engineering and Phishing

Social engineering, or “human hacking,” manipulates individuals into compromising their own security, often by disclosing confidential information, making financial transactions or weakening security measures.

Phishing, which according to the FBI, was the top type of cybercrime reported in 2023, involves deceptive emails, texts or calls that prompt victims to share personal information, share login credentials or send money to attackers. Phishing can also lead to malware downloads or other unsafe actions.

10. Zero-Day Exploits

A zero-day exploit is a cyberattack that targets an undiscovered or unpatched security flaw in software, hardware or firmware. Since the vulnerability is unknown to the vendor, they have no time to develop a fix before attackers can use it to infiltrate their vulnerable systems.

4 Different Types of Information Security

Organizations implement information security strategies and tools to protect their data from unauthorized access and loss. Commonly used types of information include application security, cloud security, data security and network infrastructure security. Each addresses specific risks. Together, they help organizations build and maintain a safe and resilient digital environment.

1. Application Security

Application security (AppSec) focuses on protecting software applications and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) from unauthorized access, modification or deletion of sensitive data. It involves secure coding practices, penetration testing, vulnerability assessments and security tools to address potential threats. These measures help reduce the risk of data breaches or system compromise by malicious actors.

2. Cloud Security

From protecting data to strengthening infrastructure, cloud security defends digital assets. It fights threats on three fronts: privacy, access and compliance. Cloud security establishes a set of policies, controls and best practices to secure storage, networks and data governance. Access management and disaster recovery are critical to cloud security to help ensure resilient cloud environments for modern enterprises.

3. Data Security

Data security protects sensitive information from unauthorized access, use, disclosure or destruction. It uses encryption, access control and backup procedures to maintain data confidentiality, integrity and availability, in alignment with an organization’s risk strategy. Effective data security also includes a response plan for detecting, responding to and recovering from security breaches.

4. Network Infrastructure Security

Network infrastructure security safeguards data centers and devices. Its main goal is to prevent unauthorized access and data theft using tools such as firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs), behavioral analytics and intrusion prevention systems (IPSs). Network infrastructure security detects and neutralizes threats. Additionally, access controls and application security enhance defenses.

9 Careers in Information Security

As digital threats increase, careers in information security have become essential for protecting data, applications and infrastructure. These roles not only strengthen an organization’s resilience but also offer dynamic career paths as companies prioritize cybersecurity. Below are examples of information security roles that individuals can pursue, with all salary data sourced from the compensation website Payscale, unless otherwise indicated.

1. Chief Information Security Officer

The chief information security officer (CISO) is a senior executive position responsible for protecting an organization’s information security. Although responsibilities may vary across organizations, their primary mission remains the same: to oversee cyber defenses and develop and enforce information security policies that secure assets, applications and systems.

CISOs earned a median annual salary of around $178,200 as of October 2024.

2. Clinical Data Analyst

Clinical data analysts extract value from large amounts of health data, including patient health records, insurance claims, clinical trials and patient health outcomes. The data helps health care providers improve patient care, improve health care operations and lower costs.

Clinical data analysts earned a median annual salary of around $77,500 as of October 2024.

3. Cryptographer

Cryptographers secure communication by encoding data using mathematical techniques, algorithms and ciphers. They develop systems to protect digital assets and network data using algorithms and ciphers. They protect classified data and prevent unauthorized access. Cryptographers use math to develop secure systems for digital assets and networks. They prevent data breaches and ensure authorized access to sensitive information.

Cryptographers earned a median annual salary of around $115,200 as of November 2023.

4. Cybersecurity Manager

Cybersecurity managers are focused on protecting networks, systems and data from online threats, such as malware and hacking. They identify system weaknesses, update security measures and plan for potential threats. For example, they may develop cybercrime strategies designed to prevent data breaches and protect sensitive information. They work in various sectors, including insurance, health care and government.

Cybersecurity managers earned a median annual salary of around $138,600 as of October 2024.

5. Digital Forensic Analyst

Digital forensic analysts, also known as digital forensic examiners, investigate computer-based crimes to support investigations in criminal, fraud, counterintelligence or law enforcement cases. They gather evidence from digital media and logs related to cyber intrusions and analyze information security incidents to help mitigate system and network vulnerabilities.

Digital forensic analysts earned a median annual salary of around $78,800 as of May 2024.

6. Ethical Hacker

Ethical hackers, also known as white hat hackers, find and fix security weaknesses in networks or systems. They have the same skills as malicious hackers (black hat hackers), but following a code of conduct, they help organizations improve their security without harming their networks or users. Activities performed by ethical hackers include penetration testing, vulnerability assessments and malware analysis.

Ethical hackers earned a median annual salary of around $91,500 as of July 2024.

7. Information Security Analyst

What is an information security analyst? These analysts strengthen computer networks by monitoring for breaches; investigating system intrusions; testing for vulnerabilities; and deploying protective software, such as firewalls and encryption tools. They stay ahead of evolving threats, document incidents and metrics, and create security protocols and best practices.

Information security analysts earned a median annual salary of $120,360 as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

8. Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence analysts find patterns in data and turn them into insights that inform decision-making. Part of the role is to perform threat analysis to help secure data from diverse sources. This includes examining information, identifying patterns or relationships, and drawing conclusions. Partnering with law enforcement and federal agencies, intelligence analysts often work at the forefront of protecting national interests.

Intelligence analysts earned a median annual salary of around $79,100 as of October 2024.

9. Security Architect

Security architects, also known as cybersecurity architects, focus on protecting an organization’s information technology (IT) systems against breaches that could expose confidential information or disrupt operations. They design defenses encompassing hardware, software, protocols and security measures to combat scams, ransomware, malware, viruses, phishing and hacking attempts.

Security architects earned a median annual salary of around $143,500 as of October 2024.

Benefits of Earning a Master’s Degree in Information Security Management

New cyberthreats continually emerge, making information security management essential for protecting organizations’ data. Professionals in this field must stay current with the latest technologies and techniques, as hackers are constantly evolving their methods to exploit vulnerabilities.

Earning a Master of Science (MS) in Information Security Management allows individuals to build advanced skills, prepare for leadership roles and enhance career prospects in a growing field.

Employment for computer and information systems managers, including information security management professionals, is projected to grow by 17 percent from 2023 to 2033, surpassing the average growth rate for all occupations, according to the BLS.

Additional benefits of earning an MS in Information Security Management include the following:

Advanced Knowledge and Skills: The program provides expertise in cybersecurity practices, risk assessment and threat mitigation, allowing graduates to stay ahead in a rapidly changing field.
Career Advancement: The program opens doors to senior roles, such as cybersecurity manager or CISO, significantly enhancing career growth and salary potential.
Specialized Skills Development: The program allows students to choose a specialization, such as digital forensics, ethical hacking and compliance management, developing versatile skills applicable across sectors, including finance, health care and government.
Leadership and Strategic Planning: The program emphasizes leadership, preparing graduates to effectively lead security teams, manage incident responses and design comprehensive security policies.
Networking Opportunities: The program allows students to gain access to mentorships, job placements and networking opportunities with cybersecurity experts, opening the door to professional growth.
Certification Preparation: Many programs align with certifications, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), allowing students to work toward obtaining these credentials.
Real-World Application and Leadership Skills: The program is supported by experienced faculty. Students develop the skills needed to tackle complex security challenges in high-pressure settings, such as crisis management centers and counterterrorism units.

Prepare for a Career in Information Security Management

The bar has been rapidly rising for individuals seeking a career in information security management. Aspiring information security managers need advanced skills and knowledge to take proactive measures to safeguard systems. Familiarity with the various roles and essential skills within information security is fundamental to success.

Augusta University Online’s MS in Information Security Management program provides the preparation needed to thrive in this rewarding career. Through a curriculum with both technical and management tracks, students gain cutting-edge skills to combat and prevent cyber risks. The technical track is ideal for students with undergraduate degrees in fields such as IT, computer science or computer engineering, or with a strong background in related technology, offering expert-level insights into information security management. The managerial track allows students to tailor their coursework to leadership roles.

Graduates from both tracks gain the in-demand skills to be on the front line of cyberdefense for any organization. Learn how the MS in Information Security Management program can equip you with the skills to prevent modern cyberattacks and achieve your career goals.

Sources:
Cisco, What Is a CISO?
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Cybersecurity and Physical Security Convergence
FBI, Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Report 2023
FBI, Ransomware
Fortinet, What Is Information Security?
Google, What Is Cloud Security?
HackerOne, Information Security: Principles, Threats, and Solutions
IBM, Types of Cyberthreats
IBM, What Are Advanced Persistent Threats?
IBM, What Is Ethical Hacking?
Indeed, How to Become a Cybersecurity Manager
Interpol, Cryptojacking
National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, Data Security
Payscale, Average Chief Information Security Officer Salary
Payscale, Average Clinical Data Analyst Salary
Payscale, Average Cryptographer Salary
Payscale, Average Cyber Security Manager Salary
Payscale, Average Ethical Hacker Salary
Payscale, Average Forensic Computer Analyst Salary
Payscale, Average Intelligence Analyst Salary
Payscale, Average Security Architect, IT Salary
TechTarget, “Application Security”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer and Information Systems Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Information Security Analysts
VMware, What Is Network Infrastructure Security?

Like Love Haha Wow Sad Angry