CIA security triangle , also known as the CIA model , is a conceptual model in information security that includes three main aspects: Confidentiality , Integrity , and Availability. These three elements are the basic objectives for data protection in information systems and are often used as the cornerstone of security measures in information technology .
- Confidentiality
Confidentiality refers to the protection of data against unauthorized access. The purpose of this component is to ensure that information is accessible only to those who are authorized to see or use it. Confidentiality is ensured through encryption, access control and other security techniques .
- Integrity
Integrity refers to maintaining the accuracy and completeness of data. This means that the information should not be changed accidentally or intentionally. Integrity ensures that information has not been altered during transmission, storage, and processing. This component is protected through hash algorithms, digital signatures and change control mechanisms .
- Availability
Availability refers to ensuring access to relevant information and resources for authorized users at the time of need. This element ensures that systems, networks and applications are efficient and available. Availability can be threatened by attacks such as Denial of Service ( DoS ) attacks and is maintained through solutions such as load balancing and disaster recovery systems .
In practice, maintaining a balance between confidentiality, integrity and availability is often challenging. For example, increasing privacy by adding layers of security may lead to decreased accessibility. Security professionals should find the right balance between these three aspects according to the specific needs and requirements of the organization or environment .
Common Cyber Attacks Major Aspects of the CIA Security Triangle
Cyber attacks are usually aimed at hitting one or more aspects of the CIA’s security model . Here are the types of attacks that are associated with each aspect of this model and a brief explanation of each :
1. Confidentiality
- Phishing attacks : Fraudsters use fake emails, messages, or websites to trick users into obtaining sensitive information such as passwords or banking information .
- Extrusion (Data Exfiltration) : Sensitive data is illegally extracted from a network or system, usually by a malware or internal intruder .
2. Integrity
- MITM (Man-in-the-Middle) attacks : The attacker is placed between two parties (such as the user and the bank) and manipulates the information sent between them .
- Injection Attacks : The attacker inserts malicious codes into software inputs ( such as SQL injection) that can lead to data manipulation in databases .
3. Availability
- Denial of Service ( DoS ) attacks : By sending a large load of traffic to the server or network, the attacker causes it to fail or reduce its responsiveness .
- Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks : Similar DoS , but using many different resources to increase the intensity and impact of the attack .
Each of these attacks is designed to hit one of the fundamental aspects of information security and can be used alone or in combination to cause wider damage .
