When it comes to safeguarding your business, it’s easy to see Cyber Security and Information Security as interchangeable. After all, both are about protecting valuable assets and reducing risks. However, the distinction between the two is far more than just a matter of wording and for SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises), understanding the difference could mean the difference between adequate protection and costly vulnerabilities.
In this article, I’ll break down what each term really means, why the distinction matters, and how SMEs can build a smarter, more resilient approach to security.
What Is Information Security?
Information Security, often shortened to “infosec,” is the broader discipline. It’s all about protecting information; in any form. That could be customer records stored in a database, confidential contracts sitting in a filing cabinet, or intellectual property discussed in a private meeting room.
Information Security focuses on three fundamental principles, often referred to as the CIA triad:
- Confidentiality – Preventing unauthorized access to information.
- Integrity – Ensuring information remains accurate and trustworthy.
- Availability – Making sure information is accessible to those who need it, when they need it.
It doesn’t matter whether the threat comes from a hacked laptop, a lost paper document, or a power outage; if it impacts your information, it’s an Information Security concern.
What Is Cyber Security?
Cyber Security is a subset of Information Security; specifically concerned with protecting systems, networks, devices, and data from cyber-based threats. These threats include hacking attempts, phishing attacks, malware infections, ransomware, and countless other forms of digital sabotage.
Think of Cyber Security as the “technical frontline” of Information Security. It deals with:
- Firewalls
- Intrusion detection systems
- Antivirus software
- Secure coding practices
- Data encryption
- Secure remote access
- Cyber incident response plans
While Information Security takes a broader view (including physical and procedural protections), Cyber Security focuses purely on defending against threats that come through digital means.
Why This Distinction Matters for SMEs
For SMEs especially, resources are often limited. There’s rarely a dedicated security department, and security responsibilities are often shared among general IT staff, managers, or even the business owner themselves. When security is treated as just an IT issue, many important risks can go unaddressed.
Here’s why knowing the difference matters:
1. Cyber Security Alone Isn’t Enough
You could have excellent firewalls and endpoint protection, but if an employee leaves a confidential contract on a train, or your office has weak physical access controls, sensitive information can still leak. Cyber Security measures alone won’t cover all your risks.
Real-world example:
An SME installs the latest Cyber Security software but leaves backup drives unsecured in a public area. When a visitor steals one, the result is a major data breach; despite “strong Cyber Security.”
2. Risk Management Needs a Holistic View
Proper risk assessments for SMEs must consider not just cyber threats but also physical security, employee behavior, third-party risks, and procedural gaps. Thinking in terms of Information Security, rather than only Cyber Security, promotes a much more comprehensive, layered approach.
3. Compliance and Legal Obligations
Regulations like the UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, and industry standards (such as ISO 27001) don’t just talk about Cyber Security; they require protection of all forms of personal and sensitive data, regardless of the medium.
A narrow Cyber Security-only focus might leave SMEs non-compliant; a dangerous position that can lead to fines, reputational damage, and loss of trust.
4. Incident Response Should Cover More Than Just Hacks
When SMEs create an incident response plan, it should include scenarios like lost laptops, physical theft, accidental exposure of sensitive paperwork, and human error, not just cyber attacks. Recognizing the broader scope of Information Security ensures the business is ready for a wider range of incidents.
How SMEs Can Use This Knowledge
Understanding the difference between Cyber Security and Information Security isn’t just academic; it can directly strengthen your business. Here’s how SMEs can put it into practice:
- Assess your risks comprehensively – Look beyond online threats. Think about physical risks, insider threats, and environmental factors.
- Develop an Information Security policy – Cover digital, physical, and procedural safeguards; and make sure everyone understands it.
- Train your staff – Teach them not just about phishing emails, but about the importance of securing physical documents, proper data handling, and spotting security weaknesses.
- Invest smartly – Don’t just spend on antivirus software. Also consider investments in secure storage, access controls, shredding sensitive documents, and backup power supplies.
- Regularly review and improve – Information Security is a journey, not a one-time project. Keep evaluating and adjusting your strategies as your business grows and changes.
Conclusion
In today’s world, strong Cyber Security is essential; but for SMEs who want true resilience, it must sit within a larger Information Security framework. By understanding and embracing the full scope of Information Security, SMEs can protect not just their technology, but their people, processes, and reputations too.
If you’re looking to strengthen your SME’s Information Security posture, from cyber defence to compliance and beyond, Stu Walsh Ltd. is here to help. Get in touch by clicking here to find out how we can support your journey toward smarter, stronger security.
