What is an example of a threat source in cybersecurity?

A threat source in cybersecurity refers to an entity that poses a potential risk or threat to security. In this context, a cybercriminal exemplifies a threat source because they actively seek to exploit vulnerabilities in systems, networks, or individuals to gain unauthorized access, steal information, or cause damage. Cybercriminals can use various tactics, such as malware or phishing, to carry out their malicious activities, thus directly leading to cyber incidents and security breaches.

On the other hand, elements like a firewall, security updates, or data backup serve protective or mitigating roles in cybersecurity. Firewalls act as barriers to prevent unauthorized access, security updates patch vulnerabilities to bolster security, and data backups are means of information recovery in the event of loss or corruption. While these components are crucial for maintaining security, they do not represent threat sources themselves.