Understanding cybersecurity can help you better apply it in your business or even at home settings.
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computers, mobile devices, electronic systems, servers, networks, and data from illicit attacks.
In many instances, cybersecurity is also known as electronic information security or information technology security.
But to help us understand cybersecurity better, it is divided into a few common categories. For example:
1. Network Security
Network security is the protection of a computer network from attackers. For example, targeted attacks or opportunistic malware)
2. Application Security
Application security is the protection of software and devices from threats. Because if an application is compromised, the attacker can have more access to the user’s data.
3. Information Security
Information security focuses on the integrity and privacy of information or data. For example, this applies to both data transit and storage.
4. Operational Security
Operational security is the protection of processes and the handling of data assets. For example, managing users’ access and permissions and handling data storage and transmission for users.
5. Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity
Disaster recovery focuses on how your organization responds to any cybersecurity attack or natural disaster that affects operations and data.
For instance, disaster recovery policies state how your organization will restore its normal operations after an incident.
Moreover, business continuity is your organization’s plan in how to operate the business amidst disruption.
So both business continuity and disaster recovery back each other up in helping your business get back up again, in case of an incident.
6. End-user Education
End-user education focuses on educating people.
This facet of cybersecurity aims to teach users how to deal with emails to avoid phishing attacks. Also, it informs why plugging in unidentified USB drives is harmful, and all other cybersecurity practices.
Besides, the people factor is highly important in mitigating cyberattacks from taking place. Otherwise, compromising any sensitive data is easy.
Most Common Cybersecurity Threats
1. Malware
Malware is known as “malicious software”. This is software created by a cybercriminal to infiltrate systems and computers. Moreover, malware transmission is through email attachments or file downloads.
Different types of malware:
- Virus
- Trojans
- Spyware
- Ransomware
- Adware
- Botnets
2. SQL Injection
SQL or the structured language query injection is a cyberattack that aims to take control and steal data from a database.
3. Phishing
Phishing is when cyberattackers bait users through emails and asking for sensitive information. In most cases, phishing asks for credit card data and other personal information, for instance.
4. Man-in-the-middle
A man-in-the-middle cyberattack is when a cyber threat inserts itself between the communication of two people to steal data. For example, through a WiFi connection.
5. Denial-of-service Attack
A denial-of-service attack is when cybercriminals block a computer system from doing its operations. Usually, this is done by overwhelming systems and networks with traffic. By doing so, the users can no longer perform their vital functions. While on the other hand, the attacker gains access and control over them.
Why is Cybersecurity Important?
Cybersecurity is a worldwide concern for every business or institution.
A good understanding of cybersecurity can also excuse you or anyone from any business disruption. For example, in financial, data, reputation, and regulatory concerns that may come from any cyberattack.
