What is an example of a cyber threat?

An unpatched software vulnerability is considered a cyber threat because it represents a flaw in software that can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems or data. These vulnerabilities can arise from bugs in the code, missing security patches, or outdated software, which create potential entry points for malicious actors. When a vulnerability is unpatched, it remains open for exploitation, allowing threats such as malware infections, data breaches, or system compromises to occur. Maintaining updated software and promptly applying security patches is crucial in mitigating such risks and protecting network integrity.

In contrast, a power outage typically relates to physical infrastructure issues rather than cybersecurity. Network configuration changes, while important to security posture, do not inherently constitute a cyber threat unless they introduce vulnerabilities or misconfigurations. Server maintenance, though essential for operational integrity, is a routine task that should not pose a direct threat if performed correctly under secure guidelines.