What is Cybersecurity
Introduction
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting IT systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and breaches. It ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of digital assets.
Core Cybersecurity Principles
- Confidentiality: Protects data through encryption and access controls.
- Integrity: Ensures data accuracy and prevents unauthorized modifications.
- Availability: Ensures reliable access to critical systems through redundancy and failover mechanisms.
Regulatory Compliance and Legal Obligations
1. Financial Services
Regulations such as GLBA (USA), DORA (EU), and SOX (USA) mandate strict controls over financial data protection and reporting.
2. Healthcare
HIPAA (USA), GDPR (EU), and HITECH Act (USA) enforce strong protections for patient health information.
3. Critical Infrastructure
CIRCIA (USA), NIS-2 Directive (EU), and SOCI (Australia) set requirements for cybersecurity resilience in essential services.
4. Technology and Digital Services
Regulations such as the Cyber Resilience Act (EU) and the EU AI Act introduce strict security requirements for AI and digital products.
5. General Business and Consumer Data
GDPR (EU), CCPA (USA), and DPDPA (India) establish frameworks for consumer privacy and data protection.
Security Frameworks and Standards
- NIST Cybersecurity Framework (USA)
- ISO/IEC 27001 (International)
- PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard)
- Essential Eight (Australia)
Incident Response and Disaster Recovery
- Incident Response: Detect, contain, eradicate, recover, and report security incidents.
- Disaster Recovery: Implement resilient backup strategies and recovery site planning.
Emerging Cybersecurity Trends
- Increasing regulations on AI and IoT security.
- Global alignment of compliance frameworks.
- Growing state-level data protection laws.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity is constantly evolving, requiring organizations to stay ahead of regulatory changes, implement strong risk management strategies, and comply with international security frameworks.

