Understanding Cyber Security and Information Security

Cyber Security is now a commonly used term but much like the word convergence in the 90’s it means so many different things to different people.  In reality Cyber Security is the discipline of protecting all IT equipment such as laptops; desktops; tablets; servers; networks; electronic systems; mobile devices and the data held on all of those devices. Specifically focused on providing protection against cyber crimes including fraud through things like malware, phishing and many more.

Conversely Information Security is a relatively new and self-explanatory term. Information Security is about protecting all types of data analogue and digital by preventing; unauthorised access to company information; alteration of information; inaccurate records being held in either electronic or analogue form all while ensuring information is available to those that need and should have access to it. Information Security should also address procedures for information disclosure requests.   

While these two terms are linked, it is clear they mean vastly different things So when reviewing security for your organisation it’s vitally important to look at both aspects in isolation; considering both the technology around them as well as the human interaction with data and the procedures and processes implemented for the protection of data.