What is meant by the term 'threat landscape' in cybersecurity?

The term 'threat landscape' in cybersecurity refers to the evolving array of potential threats that organizations may face. This encompasses a wide variety of threats including malware, phishing attacks, ransomware, insider threats, and advanced persistent threats (APTs), among others. Understanding the threat landscape involves analyzing how these threats develop over time, their potential impact on systems and data, and the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used by adversaries. This knowledge is critical in shaping security strategies and defenses, enabling organizations to anticipate, identify, and mitigate risks in their environments.

Recognizing the threat landscape allows organizations to stay informed about new vulnerabilities, attack methods, and emerging trends within the cyber threat environment. This is vital for developing effective countermeasures and maintaining resilience against attacks, which is central to the practice of cybersecurity.