Information Security vs Cyber Security - What's the Difference?

October 6, 2025

Technically cybersecurity is an aspect of information security and is mainly focused on threats to digital assets. 


Key Distinctions


Information Security (Infosec) is an extensive field dedicated to safeguarding information in all its forms—whether digital, physical, or even verbal.


Conversely, Cybersecurity is a specialized area within information security concentrating exclusively cyber threats to electronic data, systems, and networks.


Scope and Emphasis


Infosec encompasses threats emerging from both digital and physical avenues (for instance, paper documents and social engineering tactics).


In contrast, Cybersecurity hones in on digital risks, including malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.


Common Foundations


Both domains are anchored in the CIA Triad:

Confidentiality – protecting data from unauthorized access.

Integrity – ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data.

Availability – guaranteeing data is accessible whenever required.


As a practitioner, I strongly advocate for Information Security due to its comprehensive nature and alignment with industry standards like ISO and NIST which aim to prevent, identify, and address information security risks, including cyber threats.


Earlier this year, Forbes published an article that effectively delineates the differences for those seeking a more in-depth understanding including career paths.

Diagram showing core components of an information security program: Administrative, Technical, and Physical safeguards.

What Is an Information Security Program & Why Your Business Needs One

October 17, 2025
Simply put, an information security program is a structured set of policies, procedures, and technical safeguards designed to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access, theft, or destruction. Whether you're handling personal, business, employee, or customer information, protecting that data is essential to maintaining trust and avoiding costly business disruptions. An effective information security program acts as your roadmap to resilience , helping reduce the risk of security incidents and ensuring your business can operate smoothly—even in the face of cyber threats. Core Components of an Information Security Program A well-rounded program includes three key categories of safeguards: Administrative Safeguards - Policies, procedures, risk assessments, data governance, and training that define how people interact with sensitive information. Technical Safeguards - Tools and technologies that prevent, detect, and respond to unauthorized access and cyber threat activity. Physical Safeguards - Measures like building access controls, secure storage for physical records, and surveillance systems to protect your physical environment. Why It Matters: Benefits of a Security Program Implementing an information security program offers significant advantages:  Protects sensitive data from breaches and loss Reduces the likelihood and cost of security incidents Helps meet regulatory and compliance requirements Builds trust with customers, employees, and partners Fosters a strong security culture across your workforce Clarifies roles and responsibilities for data protection It Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated Your business may already have many of these elements in place—but formalizing them into a cohesive program can be challenging when you're juggling competing priorities. At Cyber Risk Navigator , CyberRN specializes in building reasonable, affordable, and appropriately sized information security programs tailored to your business’s size, industry, and regulatory landscape. Ready to build a security program that fits your business? Cyber Risk Navigator can help you take the next step—reach out today for a free consultation.