Cybersecurity and Cybersecurity Compliance is Not One Thing…It’s Two

Cybersecurity and Cybersecurity Compliance is Not One Thing…It’s Two

Cybersecurity and Cybersecurity Compliance share the same objective (protecting sensitive data from cyber threats), but they aren’t the same thing.  They are related but have different focuses.

What is cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and sensitive data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This includes implementing security measures such as firewalls, encryption, access controls, and monitoring to prevent cyber attacks and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.

What is cybersecurity compliance?

Cybersecurity Compliance, on the other hand, refers to the process of adhering to established rules, regulations, and standards related to cybersecurity. Requirements may come from government regulations, industry standards, contractual obligations, or internal policies and involve not only implementing security measures but also documenting and demonstrating that those measures are in place and effective.  

Furthermore, Cybersecurity typically refers to the protection of electronic systems and data while Cybersecurity Compliance encompasses a broader range of security requirements that may also apply to non-electronic areas such as physical security and human resources.  Cybersecurity Compliance may also require independent third-party testing of technical controls, depending on the specific compliance requirements that apply to an organization.

In other words, Cybersecurity is about protecting against cyber threats and vulnerabilities, while Cybersecurity Compliance is about meeting specific requirements and standards related to cybersecurity.