Which of the following best defines a 'cyber attack'?

Which of the following best defines a 'cyber attack'?

• A. An attempt to enhance digital infrastructure
• B. A secure software installation process
• C. Destruction of physical property
• D. An attempt to damage or gain unauthorized access to systems

Answer: (D)

A cyber attack is an attempt to damage or gain unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or data. This captures the adversarial intent behind many security threats, which include disrupting operations, stealing information, or taking control of digital assets. For example, ransomware aims to lock up files for extortion, while intrusions seek to steal credentials or data, and malware can disrupt availability. The other options miss the core idea: trying to enhance or secure infrastructure is the opposite of an attack, a secure installation process is a protective practice, and while some cyber incidents can lead to physical harm, describing it as destruction of physical property is too broad and shifts away from the digital target. Thus, the best definition focuses on harming or breaching digital systems.

A cyber attack is an attempt to damage or gain unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or data. This captures the adversarial intent behind many security threats, which include disrupting operations, stealing information, or taking control of digital assets. For example, ransomware aims to lock up files for extortion, while intrusions seek to steal credentials or data, and malware can disrupt availability. The other options miss the core idea: trying to enhance or secure infrastructure is the opposite of an attack, a secure installation process is a protective practice, and while some cyber incidents can lead to physical harm, describing it as destruction of physical property is too broad and shifts away from the digital target. Thus, the best definition focuses on harming or breaching digital systems.