What is cybersecurity? Why is it important? Security breaches have caused business disruptions leading to a massive spike in operation cost and reduced revenue. Over the years, cyberattacks have evolved hence the need for new network security solutions.
What is cybersecurity?
It is the protection of internet-connected systems like software, hardware, and data from cyber threats. It enables individuals and enterprises to protect computerized systems and data centers against unauthorized access. These malicious attacks are designed to delete, alter, access, extort or destroy sensitive data. Modern enterprises have increased the number of internet devices, users, and programs in the workplace. Cyber attackers have resolved to attack with more sophisticated techniques. Therefore cyber security is a necessity to protect confidential data.
Types of cybersecurity threats.
- Ransomware.
An attacker locks the computer system files of the victim through encryption and asks for payment to decrypt and unlock them.
- Malware.
When a user clicks on a dangerous link or email, malicious software that may include viruses, spyware, worms, and Trojans is installed into the system. This malware can:
- Damage the system.
- Block access to the network’s critical components.
- Collect confidential information.
- Phishing.
The user is tricked into clicking malicious emails sent by cybercriminals who make the email look like it is was sent by a legitimate source. It may lead to the disclosure of sensitive data like login credentials or malware installation.
- Spear phishing.
It is a more sophisticated phishing attack where cybercriminals target only privileged users like system administrators.
- Distributed Denial of Service attack (DDoS).
The system, servers, or network is flooded with massive traffic causing the system to slow down or crash preventing it from fulfilling legitimate requests. Infected devices can be used to launch an attack on a targeted system.
- Man in the middle attack (MitM)
This happens when an attacker intercepts a two-party communication, interprets the information, steals sensitive data, and responds to messages between two parties who think they are communicating with each other.
Elements of cybersecurity.
- Application security.
The source codes of applications that are web-based or websites are vulnerable. The addition of security features in its development process will help to protect it from exploitation by cybercriminals.
- Network security.
The software and hardware systems of the network are protected from attacks, access, and unwanted users.
- Disaster recovery planning.
In case of a breach or data loss, this plan defines how work should be resumed effectively and quickly.
- End-user education.
The customers and employees who are allowed to access the company’s application should be well informed about the security policies.
- Data security.
Sensitive information about customers and companies found in mobile applications and the web should be well protected.
Conclusion.
The number of illegal hacking has increased nowadays hence the need to protect sensitive data from outsiders. Cybersecurity identifies the threats and protects data from malicious attacks. Cybersecurity threats include malware, phishing, spear phishing, Ransomware, the man in the middle attack, and distributed denial of service attack. Some of the elements of cybersecurity that a company should focus on to prevent cyber attacks include data security, network security, application security, end-user education, and disaster recovery planning.
