What is the entity that can manifest a threat called?

The entity that can manifest a threat is known as a threat source. This term encompasses any individual, group, or system that has the capability to exploit a vulnerability within an Industrial Automation and Control System (IACS) and potentially cause harm. Understanding the concept of a threat source is essential for identifying potential risks and developing effective defenses. A threat source can include malicious actors such as hackers, but can also refer to natural disasters or internal failures that could lead to security incidents.

By identifying the threat source, organizations can focus their risk assessment efforts on understanding the motivations, capabilities, and opportunities that different threat entities may have to exploit vulnerabilities within their IACS environments. This knowledge is foundational in prioritizing security measures and resource allocation to protect critical assets.