Definition - What does Communications Security (COMSEC) mean?
Communications security (COMSEC) ensures the security of telecommunications confidentiality and integrity - two information assurance (IA) pillars. Generally, COMSEC may refer to the security of any information that is transmitted, transferred or communicated.
There are five COMSEC security types:
Cryptosecurity: This encrypts data, rendering it unreadable until the data is decrypted.
Emission Security (EMSEC): This prevents the release or capture of emanations from equipment, such as cryptographic equipment, thereby preventing unauthorized interception.
Physical Security: This ensures the safety of, and prevents unauthorized access to, cryptographic information, documents and equipment.
Traffic-Flow Security: This hides messages and message characteristics flowing on a network.
Transmission Security (TRANSEC): This protects transmissions from unauthorized access, thereby preventing interruption and harm.