What Is Information Security? How Earning a Degree Keeps Everyone Safe

In today’s digital world, the protection of sensitive information has never been more critical. Information security, commonly known as InfoSec, involves safeguarding data from unauthorized access, breaches, and theft. As technology becomes more advanced, the need for skilled professionals who can defend against cyber threats grows exponentially. For businesses, governments, and individuals alike, protecting data is a top priority. 

Earning a degree in information security equips you with both the technical skills to combat cybercrime along with a solid foundation in risk management and compliance. With cyber threats evolving daily, a specialized education prepares you to stay ahead of attackers and keep essential information secure. Understanding the fundamentals of InfoSec and why information security is important can make a significant impact in ensuring the safety of both organizations and individuals alike. 

Understanding Information Security 

What is information security, exactly? Information security is a critical field that focuses on protecting data from threats such as hacking, unauthorized access, and data breaches. With the increasing dependence on digital systems across industries, understanding information security is essential not only for tech professionals but for anyone responsible for safeguarding data. The field encompasses a broad range of practices and technologies aimed at keeping sensitive information secure in both personal and professional contexts. 

What Is Information Security? Definition and Scope 

Information security (InfoSec) refers to the practice of preventing unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction of data. It encompasses both physical and digital security measures aimed at protecting sensitive information from threats. The scope of InfoSec includes various forms of data, from personal details like social security numbers to large-scale corporate and government records.  

Core Objectives of Information Security 

The core objectives of information security are often referred to as the CIA triad: confidentiality, integrity, and availability. These objectives form the foundation of any robust InfoSec program, aiming to secure data in transit, at rest, and during processing. We discuss this framework in greater depth below. 

Why Is Information Security Important? 

So, why is information security important in the grand scheme of things? In a world where businesses and individuals are more reliant on digital systems than ever, the importance of information security is undeniable. As technology advances, so do the threats that compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data. Information security is crucial for protecting personal, financial, and business-related data from unauthorized access and cyberattacks, ensuring both operational continuity and trust in a rapidly digitizing environment. 

Protecting Data in a Digital World 

The digital landscape offers immense convenience, but it also exposes data to potential breaches and unauthorized access. Information security is about safeguarding sensitive information from cyber threats, including data breaches, hacking, and malware. Effective information security strategies, such as encryption, firewalls, and strong access controls, help protect data both at rest and in transit. As organizations become more reliant on digital technologies, implementing these protective measures is essential to prevent significant financial and reputational losses due to data breaches​. 

Technical Security Measures 

Technical security measures refer to the use of software and hardware tools to protect digital assets. These controls include firewalls, encryption, antivirus software, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and multi-factor authentication. These systems help to prevent unauthorized access to networks, block malicious traffic, and ensure data is protected both in transit and at rest. Regular updates and continuous monitoring of these systems are crucial to maintaining an effective defense against cyber threats​. 

Administrative Security Controls 

Administrative controls involve policies, procedures, and training designed to guide how security is managed within an organization. These include data classification policies, password management guidelines, and incident response plans. By ensuring that employees are properly trained and aware of their roles in maintaining security, administrative controls help reduce risks stemming from human error. Additionally, these controls ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations, such as ISO 27001 and GDPR​. 

Key Information Security Strategies and Best Practices 

Effective information security strategies rely on a mix of proactive planning and continuous monitoring to mitigate risks. Implementing comprehensive security practices helps organizations protect their digital assets, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain customer trust. Three key areas — risk assessment, access control, and regular audits — are essential for any organization’s security posture. 

Risk Assessment and Management 

Conducting regular risk assessments is critical to identifying vulnerabilities within an organization’s systems and processes. This involves assessing potential threats, the likelihood of their occurrence, and the impact they would have on business operations. Organizations should develop a risk mitigation strategy that includes creating contingency plans, maintaining up-to-date security measures, and documenting all identified vulnerabilities and actions taken. Risk management also involves continuously monitoring changes within the IT environment, as new risks can emerge with system updates or external factors​. 

Implementing Strong Access Control Policies 

Access control is a fundamental aspect of securing sensitive data. Implementing role-based access control (RBAC) ensures that users only have access to the resources necessary for their job roles, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Organizations should establish robust authentication methods (such as MFA) and regularly review access control policies. Access audits, removing inactive accounts, and monitoring access logs can help maintain the security of critical systems​. 

Regular Security Audits and Compliance Checks 

Security audits are essential for identifying system vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance with industry standards like GDPR or HIPAA. These audits help organizations assess the effectiveness of their security measures, make necessary improvements, and ensure ongoing protection against cyber threats. Conducting regular security assessments not only mitigates risks but also enhances operational efficiency and builds trust with clients and stakeholders. Organizations should schedule security audits at least annually and continuously update security measures based on audit findings​. 

Information Security Technologies and Tools 

When navigating the question of, “Why is information security important?” organizations rely on various technologies and tools to protect their data and networks from cyber threats. These tools form a comprehensive security system, preventing, detecting, and responding to attacks. Below are some notable technologies, including firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection and prevention systems. 

Firewalls and Anti-Virus Software 

Firewalls are the first line of defense in network security, filtering incoming and outgoing traffic based on predefined security rules. They act as gatekeepers, allowing or blocking traffic depending on the source, destination, and type of service being requested. Firewalls can be deployed at the network perimeter (perimeter firewall) or within the network (interior firewall), adding an extra layer of protection for different departments or zones within an organization. They prevent unauthorized access while allowing legitimate traffic through​. 

Anti-virus software is essential for detecting and removing malware from individual devices and networks. It monitors files and processes in real-time, scanning for malicious code and blocking or removing infected files. While firewalls guard network boundaries, anti-virus software provides protection at the device level, ensuring a comprehensive defense against both external and internal threats​. 

Encryption Techniques and Their Importance 

Encryption is a crucial technique that protects data by converting it into an unreadable format, which can only be decrypted by authorized parties with the correct key. This ensures that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be understood by unauthorized individuals. Common encryption methods include symmetric encryption, where the same key is used for both encryption and decryption, and asymmetric encryption, which uses a pair of public and private keys. Encryption is essential for securing sensitive information, especially in industries that deal with personal, financial, or health data​. 

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) 

Intrusion detection systems monitor network traffic for suspicious activities or known attack patterns and alert administrators to potential threats. Unlike firewalls, which block unauthorized traffic based on pre-set rules, IDS focuses on detecting unusual behavior within the network.  

Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) take this a step further by not only detecting potential threats but also taking automated actions to block or mitigate the risks. IPS systems operate in real-time, positioned after the firewall, and prevent malicious traffic from reaching internal networks​. 

What Is Information Security’s Role in Compliance and Regulations? 

Information security plays a central role in ensuring compliance with numerous legal frameworks and industry regulations, particularly in fields handling sensitive personal or health-related data. Compliance with these regulations both protects data and helps organizations avoid hefty fines and maintain customer trust. Two of the most significant regulations are the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). 

Understanding GDPR and Its Global Impact 

The General Data Protection Regulation, enacted by the European Union (EU), is one of the most stringent data protection laws globally. It applies to any organization, regardless of its location, that processes the personal data of EU citizens. GDPR has specific mandates around securing personal data, including the need for explicit consent, the right to access and erase data, and strict controls over cross-border data transfers. For organizations, this means implementing comprehensive data protection measures and regularly auditing their systems to ensure compliance. Failure to adhere to GDPR can result in fines of up to 4% of a company’s global revenue or €20 million, whichever is higher​. 

The regulation's impact extends beyond Europe, as United States healthcare providers and other global businesses must comply if they handle EU citizens' data. This has made GDPR a global benchmark for data protection, influencing other regions to enhance their privacy laws​. 

HIPAA Compliance for Healthcare Information 

In the U.S., the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act regulates the handling of protected health information (PHI). HIPAA focuses specifically on healthcare data, requiring organizations to implement administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to ensure the privacy and security of patients' health information. HIPAA’s Security Rule mandates that electronic PHI (ePHI) must be protected against unauthorized access, whether it is stored, transmitted, or processed. 

Unlike GDPR, which applies to a broader scope of personal data, HIPAA is more focused on healthcare providers, health plans, and business associates involved in handling PHI. The penalties for non-compliance are significant, with fines and legal consequences if organizations fail to protect patient data adequately. 

Pursuing a Degree in Information Security 

A career in information security offers numerous opportunities as organizations increasingly prioritize protecting their data from cyber threats. Pursuing a degree in this field is a valuable step toward gaining the necessary technical skills and knowledge to enter and advance in the profession. A degree in information security can be pursued at various levels, from associate degrees to bachelor's and master's programs, with each preparing students for a range of roles in the industry. 

Educational Pathways and Degree Options 

The educational pathways to a career in information security include both formal degrees and certifications. For entry-level positions, a bachelor’s degree in information security, computer science, or a related field is typically required. Some professionals advance their careers by earning a master's degree, which can open doors to leadership or specialized roles such as security architects or cybersecurity consultants. Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are also highly regarded and can complement academic credentials, particularly for those looking to specialize or transition into the field​. 

Required Skills and Knowledge Base 

To succeed in information security, professionals must develop both technical and soft skills. Technical skills include proficiency in network security, encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. Familiarity with privacy laws and regulations, such as GDPR and HIPAA, is also essential, particularly for roles in sectors like healthcare or finance. Soft skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork are crucial, too, as information security professionals frequently collaborate with other departments to address security risks​. 

Career Opportunities and Job Market Outlook 

The job market for information security professionals is growing rapidly, driven by increasing cyber threats and the need for robust data protection across industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of information security analysts is expected to grow by 33% from 2023 to 2033, far faster than the average for all occupations. Roles such as security engineers, forensic analysts, and penetration testers offer strong career prospects and high salaries, with median annual wages for information security analysts reaching more than $120,000​. As cyber threats evolve, the demand for skilled professionals in information security will continue to rise. 

Real-World Applications of Information Security 

InfoSec has a key role across a variety of industries, ensuring the safety of data and protecting systems from cyber threats. Below are some notable case studies that highlight the importance of InfoSec in different sectors, from financial institutions to personal data protection and government defense. 

Information Security in the Financial Sector 

The financial sector is one of the most targeted industries for cyberattacks due to the immense amount of sensitive data it handles. One significant case is the Capital One data breach in 2019, where a misconfigured firewall in a cloud-based system allowed a hacker to access sensitive data, affecting over 100 million people. This breach exposed personal information, including social security numbers and bank account details, highlighting the critical need for stringent security measures in cloud infrastructure. In response, financial institutions have increased investments in advanced security solutions, such as zero trust architectures (ZTAs) and multifactor authentication, to mitigate future risks​. 

Another example is the JPMorgan Chase breach in 2014, where attackers gained root access to 90 of the bank’s servers. Although no financial information was stolen, the breach compromised the contact details of 83 million customers. This incident demonstrated the importance of securing not just financial data but also personal identifiers, which could be used in future phishing or fraud attempts​. 

Protecting Personal Information Online 

Protecting personal information online has become increasingly challenging due to the rise in cyber threats. One notable example is the Equifax breach in 2017, which exposed the personal details of nearly 150 million people. Hackers exploited a vulnerability in the company’s web application, leading to the theft of social security numbers, addresses, and birthdates. This breach underscored the necessity of continuous patching and security updates for online systems. Following the incident, Equifax paid over $1 billion in penalties, and companies handling personal information are now more vigilant about regulatory compliance, such as adhering to GDPR and HIPAA standards​. 

The Importance of InfoSec in Government and Defense 

In government and defense, the importance of InfoSec cannot be overstated, especially in the face of rising geopolitical tensions. For example, the SolarWinds hack in 2020, which targeted multiple U.S. government agencies and private companies, was a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in software supply chains. Attackers inserted malware into SolarWinds' Orion software, which was used by major government bodies, leading to data theft and significant disruptions. This incident highlighted the vital need for enhanced security protocols in governmental IT infrastructure and has spurred the adoption of more stringent cybersecurity frameworks​. 

Challenges Facing Information Security Today 

As the digital world expands, information security faces a growing number of challenges that threaten the integrity and safety of personal, corporate, and government data. Two key factors that continue to challenge InfoSec are the ever-evolving nature of cyber threats and the human element, which often proves to be a weak point in security strategies. 

The Ever-Changing Landscape of Cyber Threats 

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, with new vulnerabilities emerging as technology advances. Cybercriminals are leveraging sophisticated techniques such as AI-driven attacks, ransomware, and phishing campaigns to exploit security gaps. In addition, nation-state actors continue to target critical infrastructure, as seen in the SolarWinds hack, which compromised major U.S. government agencies. This rapid evolution of cyber threats makes it imperative for organizations to continuously update their defenses and adopt a proactive (rather than reactive) approach to cybersecurity​. 

The Human Element in Information Security Breaches 

Despite technological advancements, human error remains a leading cause of information security breaches. Employees may inadvertently click on phishing emails or fail to follow proper security protocols, allowing attackers easy access to sensitive systems. According to studies, insider threats — whether intentional or accidental — pose a significant risk, with approximately 85% of breaches involving some form of human error. Continuous education and training for employees, along with strict access controls, are essential in mitigating these risks​. 

Secure Your Future in Cybersecurity With a Degree That Counts at UC 

The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is at an all-time high. At University of the Cumberlands, we offer both an information technology sciences bachelor’s degree and an online master’s in cyber engineering that cover knowledge and skills needed to protect sensitive information and lead the fight against modern cyber threats. With flexible online courses, expert faculty, and hands-on experience, students emerge prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s cyber landscape. 

Want to take the next step in your career? Request more information or apply today and join a growing field that offers not only job security but also the opportunity to make a lasting impact.