ICTsecurity

ICTsecurity, often written ICT security, refers to the practice of protecting information assets and services across information systems, networks, software, and devices. Its aims are to maintain confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and services while preventing unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, or destruction.

The scope includes physical security, network security, application security, data security, identity and access management, and governance. It covers people, processes, and technology.

Threats include malware, ransomware, phishing, insider threats, zero-day exploits, distributed denial of service, and supply chain compromises, as well as social engineering.

Key controls include encryption, multi-factor authentication, patch management, secure software development, backups, and monitoring, complemented by incident response planning and disaster recovery.

Standards and frameworks guide practice, including ISO/IEC 27001, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, and CIS Controls. Compliance considerations address privacy laws such as GDPR or HIPAA, and cloud or IoT security models.

Governance and roles include a chief information security officer, security architects, and analysts. Policies, risk assessment, audits, vendor due diligence, and ongoing training support risk management.

Emerging trends include AI-assisted security, automation, threat intelligence, zero-trust architectures, and greater emphasis on supply chain and cloud security.