Difference between Threat and Attack

Threats and attacks are two important aspects from a security point of view. A threat is malicious act, that has the potential to damage the system or asset while an attack is an intentional act that causes damage to a system or asset. In this article, we will understand threats and attacks, and the differences between them.

What is a Threat?

A threat is a possible security violation that might exploit the vulnerability of a system or asset. The origin of the threat may be accidental, environmental (natural disaster), human negligence, or human failure. Different types of security threats are interruption, interception, fabrication, and modification.

Types of Threats

• Unstructured Threats: Unstructured threats are typically executed by inexperienced individuals using easily accessible hacking tools like shell scripts and password crackers. If executed solely to test a hacker’s skills, they can cause significant damage to a company.
• Structured Threat: A structured threat involves an organized attempt to breach a specific network or organization. These threats come from highly motivated and technically proficient hackers.
• External Threats: External threats might come from individuals or organizations working outside the company. They have unauthorized access to the computer systems and network. They typically enter a network via the Internet or dial-up access servers.
• Internal Threat: Internal dangers occur due to authorized network access, whether through a server account or physical access.

What is Attack?

An attack is a deliberate unauthorized action on a system or asset. Attacks can be classified as active and passive attacks. An attack will have a motive and will follow a method when the opportunity arises. 

Types of Attack

• Active Attack: Active attacks aim to manipulate system resources or impact their operation.
• Passive Attack: Passive attacks aim to extract sensitive information from a system without affecting its resources.

Primary Classes of Attack

• Reconnaissance
• Denial of service
• Worms, viruses, and Trojan horses
• Access: System access refers to unauthorized access to a device without an account or password.

Difference between Threat and Attack

Threat	Attack
Threats can be intentional or unintentional.	The attack is intentional.
Threats may or may not be malicious.	The attack is malicious.
Circumstances that can cause damage.	The objective is to cause damage.
Information may or may not be altered or damaged.	The chance for information alteration and damage is very high.
The threat is comparatively hard to detect.	Comparatively easy to detect.
Can be blocked by control of vulnerabilities.	Cannot be blocked by just controlling the vulnerabilities.
Can be initiated by the system itself as well as by outsiders.	An attack is always initiated by an outsider (system or user).
Can be classified into Physical, internal, external, human, and non-physical threatsats.	These can be classified into Viruses, Spyware, Phishing, Worms, Spam, Botnets, DoS attacks, Ransomware, and Breaches.

Conclusion

A threat is a potential security risk that could take advantage of a system or asset’s weakness. An attack is a deliberate unauthorized action on a system or asset. Threats and attacks on information security can be avoided in a number of ways. The IT system should be designed and administered using soft and physical firewalls, update antivirus and antimalware software, and other forms of protection.

Frequently sked Question on Threat and Attacks – FAQs

What is the motivation behind cyber attack?

Attackers commit cyberattacks for a number of reasons, including petty theft and acts of war. They utilize a variety of methods, including virus attacks, social engineering scams, and password theft, to obtain unauthorised access to their target computers. Cyberattacks can interrupt, harm, or even destroy organisations.

How significant is privacy as a component of cyber security?

Very significant, Social networking and personal cloud services have grown rapidly, and employees uses personal devices and third-party applications.

What is the biggest threat for cyber attacks?

• Third-Party Exposure.
• Configuration Mistakes.
• Poor Cyber Hygiene.
• Cloud Vulnerabilities.
• Social Engineering.

What are emerging threats?

 Emerging threats is defines as new methods, techniques and procedures that cybercriminals employ to exploit, disrupt, or breach systems security.