What term describes a weakness in a security system that can be exploited by attackers?

The term that best describes a weakness in a security system that can be exploited by attackers is "vulnerability." A vulnerability refers to a flaw or gap in a system’s security that can be targeted by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access or to compromise the integrity and confidentiality of data. Identifying and addressing vulnerabilities is a critical aspect of any cybersecurity strategy, as they represent potential entry points for attacks.

In the context of cybersecurity, threats generally refer to potential dangers that could exploit vulnerabilities, such as malware or hackers. An attack is the actual action taken by an adversary to exploit a vulnerability, resulting in a breach or an attempt to disrupt services. Risk, on the other hand, represents the potential for loss or damage when a threat exploits a vulnerability, considering both the likelihood of the threat occurring and the potential impact. Thus, while all these concepts are interconnected within the realm of security, "vulnerability" specifically designates the weaknesses that can be utilized by attackers.