A threat is an accidental or deliberate action, event, or condition with the potential to compromise the quality, utility, or functionality of network services and operations. A threat is the result of the exploitation of a vulnerability. For example, if a system is vulnerable because a default password is used, then it is a potential threat that an unauthorized user could exploit the vulnerability of the default password and impersonate another user. This section will focus on the most significant threats that result from the exploitation of vulnerabilities.
Threats that pose a risk to the PSN are of concern to NS/EP telecommunications because, especially when combined, they could impair the ability of the PSN to provide the full range of services required to meet NS/EP telecommunications services.