Cybersecurity Risk Matrix

Cybersecurity risk matrix.

A cybersecurity risk matrix compares threats using two simple measures: how likely they are and how much harm they could cause. It helps a team turn a long risk register into a focused conversation about priorities. List concrete scenarios, such as ransomware or an exposed service, rather than vague labels like security risk. Agree on the scoring definitions before placing any item, since different people can interpret likelihood and impact differently. The matrix should lead to action: a control, an owner, and a review date for the highest risks. Update it after material system, supplier, or threat changes, or after a significant incident.

Type MatriceNorme 2×2 / N×M quadrant conventionMoteur schematex-matrixMis à jour 24/09/2026

La demande

“A cybersecurity risk matrix with impact on the horizontal axis and likelihood on the vertical axis. Plot phishing account takeover, ransomware, an unpatched web server, a lost employee laptop, a third-party data breach, and an accidental public file share.”

Essayez ensuiteAdd a risk for exposed API keys.Move ransomware to almost certain.

Ce que contient ce dessin

Comprenez les décisions qui le sous-tendent.

01Set scales

Define impact and likelihood before plotting risks.

02Rank treatment

Address the risks in the high-impact, likely area first.

03Assign owners

Give every priority risk a mitigation owner.

Use this for a short, reviewable list of risks rather than a full threat model.

Voir tous les modèles de matrice →

FAQ

Questions fréquentes

What is a cybersecurity risk matrix?

It plots security scenarios by likelihood and potential impact.

Which risks should be treated first?

Start with risks that are both likely and high impact.

Is a risk matrix a threat model?

No. It prioritizes risks; a threat model analyzes attack paths and controls in more detail.