CYBER SECURITY

 CYBER SECURITY

Computer security, cybersecurity or information technology security is the protection of computer systems and networks from the theft of or damage to their hardware, software, or electronic data, as well as from the disruption or misdirection of the services they provide. The term applies in a variety of contexts, from business to mobile computing, and can be divided into a few common categories.

·         Network security is the practice of securing a computer network from intruders, whether targeted attackers or opportunistic malware.

·         Application security focuses on keeping software and devices free of threats. A compromised application could provide access to the data its designed to protect. Successful security begins in the design stage, well before a program or device is deployed.

·         Information security protects the integrity and privacy of data, both in storage and in transit.

·         Operational security includes the processes and decisions for handling and protecting data assets. The permissions users have when accessing a network and the procedures that determine how and where data may be stored or shared all fall under this umbrella.

·         Disaster recovery and business continuity define how an organization responds to a cyber-security incident or any other event that causes the loss of operations or data. Disaster recovery policies dictate how the organization restores its operations and information to return to the same operating capacity as before the event. Business continuity is the plan the organization falls back on while trying to operate without certain resources.

·         End-user education addresses the most unpredictable cyber-security factor: people. Anyone can accidentally introduce a virus to an otherwise secure system by failing to follow good security practices. Teaching users to delete suspicious email attachments, not plug in unidentified USB drives, and various other important lessons is vital for the security of any organization.

• Network security is the practice of securing a computer network from intruders, whether targeted attackers or opportunistic malware.

•  Application security focuses on keeping software and devices free of threats. A compromised application could provide access to the data its designed to protect. Successful security begins in the design stage, well before a program or device is deployed.

• Information security protects the integrity and privacy of data, both in storage and in transit.

• Operational security includes the processes and decisions for handling and protecting data assets. The permissions users have when accessing a network and the procedures that determine how and where data may be stored or shared all fall under this umbrella.

• Disaster recovery and business continuity define how an organization responds to a cyber-security incident or any other event that causes the loss of operations or data. Disaster recovery policies dictate how the organization restores its operations and information to return to the same operating capacity as before the event. Business continuity is the plan the organization falls back on while trying to operate without certain resources.

•  End-user education addresses the most unpredictable cyber-security factor: people. Anyone can accidentally introduce a virus to an otherwise secure system by failing to follow good security practices. Teaching users to delete suspicious email attachments, not plug in unidentified USB drives, and various other important lessons is vital for the security of any organization.

Types of cyber threats

The threats countered by cyber-security are three-fold:

1. Cybercrime includes single actors or groups targeting systems for financial gain or to cause disruption.

2. Cyber-attack often involves politically motivated information gathering.

3. Cyberterrorism is intended to undermine electronic systems to cause panic or fear.

So, how do malicious actors gain control of computer systems? Here are some common methods used to threaten cyber-security:

There are a number of different types of malware, including:

·        Virus: A self-replicating program that attaches itself to clean file and spreads throughout a computer system, infecting files with malicious code.

·       Trojan Horse: A type of malware that is disguised as legitimate software. Cybercriminals trick users into uploading Trojans onto their computer where they cause damage or collect data.

·        Spyware: A program that secretly records what a user does, so that cybercriminals can make use of this information. For example, spyware could capture credit card details.

·        Ransomware: Malware which locks down a user’s files and data, with the threat of erasing it unless a ransom is paid.

·        Adware: Advertising software which can be used to spread malware.

·        Botnets: Networks of malware infected computers which cybercriminals use to perform tasks online without the user’s permission.

How to avoid cybercrime  

The cyber definition relates to the field of digital technology, and today is often associated with cybercrime. You might say that it doesn’t matter to you as you’re not a big cheese in the business world. Big mistake - since all individuals save data on their computers that is potentially profitable for scammers. Unfortunately, plenty of people are reckless when dealing with cybercrime. For example, up to 73%of users reuse passwords in their online accounts. 

5 tips to stay safe online

Cybercrime is an everyday danger, and sometimes cyber police are unable to help. So, it’s arguably easier to prevent cybercrime than to deal with the consequences. How to achieve that?

1. Install a current antivirus system and accept updates when getting official notifications/
2. Never use the same passwords on several websites. Try to complicate them with symbols and numbers. Don’t choose your name or date of birth for a password.
3. Cyber-attacks today are not a joke, so you should strengthen your security system with a firewall to protect yourself from unwanted traffic.
4. Pay attention to the web camera LED indicators (they’re red on external devices and blue on laptops).
5. Be cautious with strangers. Don’t talk to them online and don’t accept offline tech help if you’re not sure it’s credible. A stranger from an unknown company can offer you computer support and then do cybercrime and spy on you remotely.

 Top 10 list of steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim of cybercrime. 

• Education
• Use a firewall
• Click with caution
• Practice safe surfing
• Practice safe shopping
• Use comprehensive security software and keep your system updated
• Secure your wireless network
• Use strong passwords
• Use common sense
• Be suspicious

Now, let us join our hands to make our world a CRIME FREE place, by following the CYBER SECURITY steps and using our gadgets rightfully.