Cyber Security - Introduction

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With the rise of technology and increase in information pools, there is a critical requirement for Information Systems to establish Cyber Security measures in order to protect the information fed into these systems. Cyber Security is a must-have for any organization, from small startups to larger multinational organizations.

" Cyber Security includes a range of technologies, processes, and practices which work by protecting networks, devices, applications, and data against threats such as attacks, theft or damage.

Basic Terms Used in Cyber Security

The following terms are some of the most basic concepts that you need to understand before learning more about Cyber Security −

• Malware − Think of it as digital germs that can make your computer sick.
• Virus − It is a type of malware that spreads from computer to computer, like a cold or infection.
• Phishing − This is the process where someone tries to trick you into giving away your personal information, like your password.
• Hacking − This is when someone tries to break into your computer or phone without permission.
• Firewall − Like a guard at a door, it stops unwanted visitors from entering your digital world.
• Encryption − It's like putting a secret code on your information so only you can read it.
• Antivirus − This is like medicine for your computer, helping to fight off digital germs.
• Identity theft − When someone steals your personal information and pretends to be you, it is known as Identity theft.
• Data breach − When someone gets access to your private information without you knowing, it is called Data breach.
• Spam − Annoying emails that you didn't ask for, which appear continuously in your feed, are called Spam.
• Botnet − A group of computers controlled by a bad person to do harmful things is known as a Botnet.
• Ransomware − This is like digital kidnapping for your computer, holding it hostage until you pay money.
• VPN − This is a secret way to hide your online activity and keep your information safe.
• Two-factor authentication − This enables an extra layer of protection that asks for more than just a password.
• Access control − It is the decision of who can see or use something in your control.
• Authentication − It is a way of proving who you are in case of a verification requirement.

We will take a more detailed look into some of these concepts in the coming parts of this tutorial.

Types of Cyber Security

The various categories of cyber security are explained as follows −

Network Security

This area focuses on the deployment of both hardware and software solutions to protect a computer network from unauthorized access. Such measures are important for organizations to defend their assets against potential threats.

Application Security

This area includes the protection of software applications and devices from various threats. Regular updates to applications are important to ensure their defence against frequent attacks.

Information Security

This involves creation of strong and secure data storage protocols to ensure the security of information, both while stored and during transmission.

Identity Security

This area includes the processes that determine the access levels granted to individuals within an organization.

Mobile Security

This focuses on the protection of data stored on mobile devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and similar gadgets, from a range of malicious threats.

Cloud Security

This domain is dedicated to safeguarding information stored within digital or cloud infrastructures, utilizing various cloud service providers such as AWS, Azure, and Google.

We will discuss these categories in the upcoming parts of this tutorial, where we will also discuss real examples of attacks as well as the defensive mechanisms which were used to protect against these attacks.

Role of Cyber Security in Business

Cybersecurity is a part of all businesses and organizations, be it a small startup or a large multinational corporation. It plays a crucial role in the monetary affairs of any business.

The following points briefly discuss the role of cybersecurity in business −

• Secure Transactions − Cyberattacks can steal money directly or indirectly. This can hurt the reputation of an organization, which can cost them customers as well as money.
• Customer Trust − If someone steals your customers' information, they won't trust you anymore and there will be financial troubles for your firm.
• Safety of Ideas − Your business ideas, plans, and special information are very important as well. Cybersecurity helps keep them secret from the outside world.
• Avoiding Downtime − Cyberattacks can shut down your business operations, costing you time and money.
• Legal Requirements − Many laws and regulations demand having protective measures for customer data. Cybersecurity helps you follow these rules.