What is specifically excluded from the definition of assets in security?

The definition of assets in the context of security typically focuses on physical and intangible items that an organization values and seeks to protect. External stakeholders, such as customers, partners, or other third parties, do not constitute assets in the traditional sense because they are not owned by the organization. Instead, they are individuals or entities that may interact with the organization but do not fall under the category of things that an organization can claim ownership over or directly protect as assets.

This understanding helps highlight the importance of recognizing what constitutes an asset for security purposes. Assets usually encompass elements like people, equipment, proprietary information, and other tangible or intangible items necessary for the organization’s operations. External stakeholders, while essential for the functioning of the business, are separate from the organizational assets that require safeguarding against threats and vulnerabilities.