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Identifying information security threats starts by systematically identifying all possible risks to your organisation. This includes external cyber threats, internal vulnerabilities, human error and technical weaknesses. A thorough risk analysis helps you prioritise and implement effective security measures that strengthen your digital resilience.
What are the most common information security threats?
The main security threats fall into four main categories: external cyber threats, internal risks, human error and technical vulnerabilities. External threats such as malware, phishing and ransomware are often the most visible risks, but internal threats can be equally damaging.
Cybercriminal activity is increasingly targeting specific sectors. Healthcare facilities face ransomware attacks that hold patient data hostage, while ICT companies face sophisticated persistent threats that steal intellectual property. These attacks often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated systems or inadequately secured access points.
Internal threats arise from employees with malicious intentions, but more often from unintentional actions by well-meaning employees. An incorrectly sent e-mail containing confidential data or the use of insecure cloud services can be just as damaging as a targeted cyber attack. Technical vulnerabilities in software, network equipment and configurations often provide attackers with easy access routes to your systems.
How do you conduct a systematic risk analysis for information security?
An effective risk analysis starts with a complete inventory of all assets, followed by identification of vulnerabilities and assessment of probability and impact. This methodology helps you prioritise risks objectively and allocate resources optimally for security.
Start by cataloguing all information assets: hardware, software, data, networks and personnel. For each asset, determine its value to your organisation and which threats specifically apply to it. For example, a customer database has different risks than a production server or a mobile laptop.
Then, for each threat, identify its likelihood of occurrence and potential impact on your business operations. To do this, use accepted frameworks such as the ISO 27001 methodology, which provides a structured approach to risk assessment. Document all findings and create a risk register in which you prioritise each identified risk.
The analysis results in an action plan in which risks are accepted, reduced, transferred or avoided. This plan forms the basis for your security strategy and helps make informed investment decisions in security measures.
What signs indicate possible security incidents?
Early warning signs of security incidents often manifest themselves as unusual system activity, performance problems, suspicious user behaviour and unexpected network traffic. Recognising these signals prevents small incidents from growing into major data breaches.
Technical anomalies such as unexpectedly high CPU usage, abnormal network traffic during quiet hours or sudden application slowdowns may indicate malicious activity. New user accounts, changes in system configurations without documentation or unknown software installations also deserve immediate attention.
User behaviour also provides important indicators. Login attempts at unusual times, access to files outside one's work area or multiple failed authentication attempts may indicate compromised accounts. Employees who report being unable to access their own files, or who find unknown e-mails in their sent items, may indicate an incident.
Network monitoring reveals suspicious patterns such as large data transfers to unknown remote locations, connections to known malicious IP addresses or unusual protocols and ports. An effective monitoring system combines automated detection with human analysis for optimal results.
How do you implement effective security measures against identified threats?
Combining effective security measures technical inspections, organisational procedures and physical security in a layered defence strategy. Implementation follows the priorities from your risk analysis and takes into account the specific context of your organisation.
Technical measures include firewalls, anti-virus software, encryption and access controls that automatically detect and block threats. Organisational measures such as security policies, awareness training and incident response plans ensure that employees know how to work safely. Physical security protects servers, workstations and other critical infrastructure from unauthorised access.
The ISO 27001 certification provides a proven framework for implementing this layered security. This international standard helps organisations set up an Information Security Management System (ISMS) that integrates all aspects of information security into business operations.
Professional audits validate whether your security measures are actually effective against identified threats. We support organisations in implementing and certifying robust security measures that comply with international standards. For personal guidance on your security process, you can contact with us.
Identifying information security threats is an ongoing process that requires systematic analysis, proactive monitoring and layered security measures. By combining these elements with standardised frameworks such as ISO 27001, you build a resilient defence against modern cyber threats, protecting your organisation without hampering business operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first steps to set up an information security risk assessment?
Start by taking full inventory of all IT assets in your organisation, including hardware, software and data. Then determine the business value for each asset and identify specific threats affecting it for a systematic approach.
How often should an organisation reassess its security threats?
Conduct a full reassessment of all identified threats and risks at least annually. In case of significant changes such as new systems, personnel or business processes, an interim review is necessary to ensure up-to-date protection.
Why are internal threats often harder to detect than external attacks?
Internal threats arise from legitimate users with authorised access to systems, making their activities less noticeable in monitoring. Moreover, internal users know the organisational structure and weaknesses, which further complicates detection.
Which tools are essential for monitoring security incidents?
Implement a combination of SIEM systems for log analysis, network monitoring tools for traffic inspection and endpoint detection for device security. These tools should be integrated with clear escalation procedures for effective incident response.
