The FREE Cybersecurity Glossary by Thor Pedersen!

Stateless Packet Inspection: A type of packet filtering that evaluates network packets without maintaining the context or state of the connection. Each packet is inspected in isolation, based on predefined rules, which might include source and destination IP addresses, protocol, and port numbers.

Statement of Work (SOW): A formal document that captures and defines the work activities, deliverables, and timeline a service provider will execute in the performance of specified work for a client. In the realm of security, the SOW outlines the specific tasks, expected outcomes, and standards or metrics for performance related to enhancing a system's protection from potential threats. It is used to provide clear, concise project specifics and set expectations between stakeholders.

Static Packet Filtering: A firewall security method that controls network traffic by applying a set of static rules to each incoming or outgoing packet. Unlike stateful inspection, it does not track the state of connections and makes decisions based solely on the attributes of individual packets, such as IP addresses and port numbers.

Statistical approach: A method of analyzing data by collecting, organizing, and interpreting numerical data in order to draw conclusions and make predictions. It is used in a wide variety of fields, including economics, psychology, and healthcare, to understand and analyze trends and patterns in data. Examples include regression analysis, t-tests, and chi-square tests.

Statutory requirements: Mandatory rules, regulations, and compliance standards set forth by government bodies and regulatory authorities. They can encompass various aspects, such as data privacy, storage, processing, and transmission. Violating these requirements can lead to legal consequences. For instance, statutory requirements might mandate certain levels of data protection or dictate specific protocols for reporting data breaches.

Stealth virus: A type of malicious software designed to avoid detection by security software and system monitoring tools. It uses various mechanisms such as obfuscation, encryption, and polymorphic techniques to disguise its presence within the infected system. By concealing itself and its activities, a stealth virus can compromise a system without alerting the user or triggering security protocols.