Which statement best defines risk in the context of information security?

The definition that best captures the concept of risk in the context of information security is the likelihood that a threat will exploit a vulnerability. This definition succinctly conveys that risk involves both the probability of a specific threat occurring and the presence of a vulnerability that can be targeted by that threat. In information security, understanding risk is paramount because it helps organizations assess potential security breaches and implement appropriate measures to mitigate them.

By focusing on the interaction between threats and vulnerabilities, this definition emphasizes the proactive nature of risk management. Organizations can identify which vulnerabilities are most likely to be exploited by threats, allowing them to prioritize their security efforts effectively. This understanding enables the development of strategies to strengthen defenses, reduce potential attack surfaces, and allocate resources efficiently to safeguard sensitive information against risks.

The other choices do not adequately encompass the complexity of risk in information security. For instance, defining risk as everlasting or transient does not address the dynamic nature of threats and vulnerabilities. Additionally, calling risk preventable oversimplifies the issue, as while organizations can reduce risks, it is often impossible to eliminate them completely. Thus, the accurate portrayal of risk as the likelihood of a threat exploiting a vulnerability stands out as the most informative and relevant for those involved in managing cloud security.