What is the term used for unauthorized access to a computer system?

The term used for unauthorized access to a computer system is "intrusion." In the context of cybersecurity, intrusion refers to the act of breaking into a system or network without authorization, typically with the intent of stealing, altering, or damaging data. Intruders may exploit vulnerabilities within the system to gain access, and their activities can lead to various malicious outcomes, such as data breaches or the deployment of additional harmful software.

Understanding this concept is crucial in the field of incident management because it highlights the need for robust security measures to protect against unauthorized access, thereby safeguarding the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information. Intrusion detection systems, for example, are often employed to identify and respond to such unauthorized access attempts in real time.