Types of System Weaknesses
Question
The absence of a safeguard, or a weakness in a system that may possibly be exploited is called a(n)?
Answers
Explanations
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A. B. C. D.C.
A vulnerability is a weakness in a system that can be exploited by a threat.
Source: KRUTZ, Ronald L.
& VINES, Russel.
D., The CISSP Prep Guide: Mastering the Ten Domains of Computer Security, 2001, John Wiley & Sons, Page 237.
The correct answer is C. Vulnerability.
A vulnerability is a flaw or weakness in a system's design, implementation, operation, or management that can be exploited by an attacker to violate the system's security. A vulnerability can be introduced at any stage of a system's lifecycle and can exist in hardware, software, firmware, or in the way that system components are configured and interact with each other.
Vulnerabilities can arise due to a variety of reasons, such as coding errors, poor design, outdated software, misconfigured systems, or lack of security awareness among users. Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, execute malicious code, disrupt normal operations, or even take control of the entire system.
In contrast, a threat is any potential danger or harm that can exploit a vulnerability and compromise a system's security. Threats can include natural disasters, human errors, malicious insiders, or external attackers. Threats and vulnerabilities are related concepts, but they are not the same thing.
Exposure refers to the state of being open to harm or danger, which can arise due to a vulnerability. Exposure is a consequence of a vulnerability and can lead to various risks.
Risk is the likelihood of harm occurring due to a threat exploiting a vulnerability. Risk is calculated by considering the likelihood of a threat occurring, the impact of the threat, and the effectiveness of existing safeguards. Risk management involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to ensure that the system's security is maintained at an acceptable level.
In summary, a vulnerability is a weakness in a system that can be exploited by a threat to cause harm, and it can lead to exposure and risk if not properly managed.
