a security vulnerability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a security vulnerability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing weaknesses in a system that could be exploited by attackers. Example: "The recent audit revealed a security vulnerability that needs to be addressed immediately to protect our data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

And sure you can have a security vulnerability there, but that doesn't mean Android isn't secure.

TechCrunch

"That's a security vulnerability waiting to happen, as if we needed more," he said.

The New York Times

report released — particularly if it revealed a security vulnerability — EPIC had challenged the T.S.A.'s withholding of other documents revealing how well the scanners work.

The New York Times

Code Red, which also struck that month, was a worm that exploited a security vulnerability in Microsoft's web-server software to spread from one server to another.

The Economist

It is designed to find out whether there is anything that could be used to blackmail the juror, thus rendering them a security vulnerability.

The Guardian

"It is a security vulnerability as identified by Congress and the 9/11 Commission," said Kelly Klundt, a Homeland Security spokeswoman.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

That is, the established end-to-end SAs are managed by a delegate, resulting in a known security vulnerability.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

A student in a Saratoga County New Yorkk) school alerted his principal to a computer security vulnerability that could expose the names, social security numbers and addresses of school employees.

TechCrunch

To report a suspected security vulnerability If you spot a potential security vulnerability in the Guardian's websites and apps, we'd be grateful to hear from you.

The Guardian

Paradoxically, security researchers say, it instead creates a gaping security vulnerability; the rootkit creates an invisible folder that allows cybercriminals to install their own malicious software where it can operate undetected, potentially stealing passwords or sending spam e-mail.

Forbes

As an example, just last week Apple had a huge security vulnerability in OSX High Sierra that would have allowed anyone to log onto an unpatched machine.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prioritize patching "a security vulnerability" promptly to prevent exploitation by malicious actors.

Common error

Avoid sensationalizing "a security vulnerability". Clearly state the facts and potential risks without exaggeration to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a security vulnerability" functions as a noun phrase, specifically as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig examples demonstrate its role in describing weaknesses within systems. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a security vulnerability" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes a weakness in a system that could be exploited. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is most frequently found in news and media and scientific contexts, and authoritative sources like TechCrunch and The New York Times often use it. When writing, it's important to be specific about the vulnerability's potential impact while avoiding overstatement. Remember to prioritize patching reported vulnerabilities to prevent possible breaches.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a security weakness

Replaces "vulnerability" with "weakness", suggesting a flaw or failing in security.

a security gap

Suggests a missing element in the security infrastructure.

a security risk

Highlights the potential danger associated with the vulnerability.

a loophole in security

Implies a way to bypass security measures.

an exploitable defect

Emphasizes that the vulnerability can be taken advantage of.

an open attack vector

Focuses on the potential ways an attacker could exploit the vulnerability.

a system flaw

Focuses on the broader system aspect rather than specifically security.

a breachable area

Suggests a specific area that can be infiltrated.

a critical bug

Uses the term "bug" to imply a problem in the code or system.

a point of failure

Highlights where the system could potentially fail due to a security issue.

FAQs

How can I describe "a security vulnerability" in simpler terms?

You can use phrases like "a security weakness", "a security flaw", or "a security risk" as "alternative phrases", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "a security vulnerability" and "a security risk"?

"A security vulnerability" is a weakness in a system, while "a security risk" is the potential harm that could occur if that vulnerability is exploited. The former is the cause, and the latter is the potential consequence.

How do I report "a security vulnerability" responsibly?

Follow established disclosure processes, such as contacting the vendor directly, and avoid publicly sharing details until a patch is available to prevent widespread exploitation.

Is it always necessary to fix "a security vulnerability" immediately?

While immediate patching is ideal, prioritize vulnerabilities based on severity, exploitability, and potential impact to allocate resources effectively. Conduct a risk assessment to determine the appropriate response timeline.