CISSP Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

In the context of information security, a threat is defined as any potential danger that a vulnerability will be exploited. This definition captures the essence of a threat as it emphasizes the possible existence of harmful activities that could impact the security of information systems.

When talking about vulnerabilities, they represent weaknesses in a system that could be exploited, but they alone do not constitute a threat. A threat exists independently of specific vulnerabilities but is only realized when a vulnerability is exploited, leading to an adverse event. Thus, the definition aligns well with the concept of risk management in information security, as it helps in identifying and assessing the threats that could affect an organization’s assets.

The other options touch on aspects related to threats but do not accurately define what a threat is. For instance, while a specific vulnerability describes a weakness rather than a danger, the likelihood of a successful attack addresses probability rather than potential danger itself. Finally, measuring existing security controls pertains to safeguarding assets rather than defining the threats to those assets. Thus, the correct choice provides a broader understanding of what constitutes a threat in information security.