Cybersecurity or Cyber Security? Does the Spelling Really Matter?

Cybersecurity or Cyber Security? Does the Spelling Really Matter?

One of the long-standing debates in the world of tech is whether to spell “cybersecurity” as one word or two, “cyber security.”

“Cybersecurity” versus “Cyber Security.”

It might seem trivial, but in the age of constant cyber threats, even small details get scrutinized. What side of the fence do you sit on? We’ll share some examples of each of the uses and hopefully you’ll walk away with your mind made up on the most important answer.

The Great Debate: Cybersecurity or Cyber Security? One Word or Two?

On one hand, you have “cybersecurity” as one word—this spelling has become standard in most technical circles, major publications, and even the language of the pieces of the U.S. government.

You can find “cybersecurity” used as one word by organizations and sources such as:

• National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework
• Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) https://www.cisa.gov/
• Oxford English Dictionary https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=cybersecurity
• Merriam-Webster Dictionary https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cybersecurity

On the other hand, “cyber security” as two words is also found internationally:

• Canadian Centre for Cyber Security https://www.cyber.gc.ca/en
• The National Cyber Security Centre (UK) https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/

There are even organizations who haven’t yet made up their mind with examples of both spellings found such as frequent uses for both spellings by the FBI, https://www.fbi.gov.

If you’re wondering if institutions of higher learning settle this debate for us, the answer is, “NOPE!”
Even in the same state, it’s an east vs. west choice as you can take courses in Cybersecurity at Western Oregon University or major in Cyber Security at Eastern Oregon University 

One Word vs. Two: Does It Matter?

At the end of the day, there isn’t a universal rule and both spellings are widely accepted. You’re free to use whichever one you prefer.

The spelling doesn’t change the meaning or importance. Whether you write it as “cybersecurity” or “cyber security,” you’re talking about the same thing: the protection of computer systems, networks, and data from theft, damage, or unauthorized access.

But while the spelling might be flexible, the concept of having a cybersecurity strategy is not.

Why Every Business Needs a Cybersecurity Strategy (Regardless of Spelling)

While your spelling choice doesn’t matter, having a cybersecurity strategy is vital. Without a well-thought-out cybersecurity strategy, you expose your business to threats like ransomware, phishing, and data breaches.

Here’s why it matters:

• Data breaches are costly: A single breach can cost a company millions of dollars in fines, lost revenue, and reputational damage.
• Compliance is key: Many industries require businesses to comply with strict regulations regarding cybersecurity. Failing to secure customer data can result in severe legal consequences.
• Cybercrime is evolving: As technology advances, so do the methods cybercriminals use. Staying ahead requires a proactive approach, not just reacting to threats as they arise.

What Should You Do?

You probably stumbled upon this blog because you’re about to write something with the term “cybersecurity” in it and you don’t want to embarrass yourself, so you ‘Googled’ how to spell it.  
Here’s the reality check you may not have expected; it’s not how you spell cybersecurity that will embarrass you…it’s whether or not you embrace a healthy cybersecurity strategy. Determining how you will move forward with a strong, well-planned cybersecurity strategy is the most important research you can conduct today, not spelling.
After all, it’s not about the space between the words—it’s about the space you’re leaving unprotected for cybercriminals to exploit. (…or is it ‘cyber criminals?’ Perhaps for another time.)

No matter how you spell it, make sure your business is prepared. Ready to safeguard your company’s future? Contact us today to start building your cybersecurity strategy.