What is the first step in risk assessment according to cybersecurity best practices?

The first step in risk assessment according to cybersecurity best practices is identifying assets and their associated threats. This initial phase is crucial because understanding what needs protection is fundamental to the entire risk assessment process. By identifying assets—such as hardware, software, data, and personnel—and recognizing the threats that could exploit vulnerabilities, organizations can better gauge their risk landscape.

This foundational knowledge enables the subsequent steps in the risk assessment process, which include evaluating vulnerabilities, determining the likelihood of threats exploiting those vulnerabilities, and ultimately deciding on appropriate security measures. Without thoroughly understanding the assets and the specific threats they face, any subsequent actions taken—such as implementing security measures or evaluating compliance—would be significantly less effective.

Establishing a clear picture of assets and threats sets the stage for more informed decisions regarding risk management strategies and resource allocation.