An Overview of cyber security concepts, threats, and vulnerabilities

Introduction to Cyber Security: An Overview of cyber security concepts, threats, and vulnerabilities

Cyber security is the process of protecting our computers, servers, systems, monitors, important data, and networks from different types of cyber attacks. In general, we can also call it information technology security. In today’s online market, a variety of cyber-attacks are causing problems for the target systems. 

What is Cyber Attack?

Cyber attack is basically a type of offensive attack that targets computer systems, infrastructures, computer networks, or any other personal computer devices by various means of malicious attacks. These attacks usually originate from an anonymous source that either steals or changes a specified target by hacking into a susceptible system. Cyber attacks are done by installing spyware on a system in order to destroy the infrastructure of entire nations. These types of attacks have become more sophisticated and dangerous in recent years. 

CyberSpace and Criminal Behaviour

Cyberspace is a domain characterized by the use of electronics and the electromagnetic spectrum to store, modify, and exchange data through different network systems and associated physical infrastructures. Cyberspace can also be defined as the interconnection of human beings with computer systems and telecommunications irrespective of their physical geography. The term “cyberspace” is basically used to represent many new ideas and phenomena related to cyber security. However, in simple terms, cyberspace is simply the idea of managing spaces. If we talk about cyberspace at a scientific level, it is basically the national environment which consists of an interdependent network of IT infrastructures available on the internet, telecommunication networks, computer systems, and processors. 

Every small to big business, computer system and government has the need for cyber security in order to safeguard their data from unauthorized access. There are different categories of cyber security which include network security, application security, information security, operational security, and disaster recovery. 

Network Security 

Network security is the process of protecting your data from threats, viruses, and other cyber attacks. Protecting our network plays the main role in any sort of business. It includes key factors like access control, virus software, antivirus software, network analytics, application security, firewalls, and VPN encryption. 

Application Security

Application security is the process of accessing and analyzing security features that are present within the applications. It is necessary for the systems, software, and businesses in order to prevent threats, unauthorized access, and data threats. We can do this to improve security practices and vulnerabilities. 

Information Security

Information security is the process of protecting sensitive information, information systems, processed information, stored information, and transmitted information. This is basically done by dealing with an information security management system that helps different businesses in data-threatening cases.

Operational Security

Operational security is basically a practice that different businesses adopt to prevent sensitive data and information from going into the wrong hands. There can be different types of cyber-attacks that can cause the processed data to leak in one or another way. The three main elements linked with operational security are media, hardware, and data. Thus, operational security can be achieved by analyzing critical information, identifying threats, recognizing vulnerabilities, risk-checking processes, and following appropriate preventive measures. 

Disaster Recovery

Disaster recovery is the process of restoring access and functionality to IT resources in the case of cyber threats and disasters. In today’s world of digital marketing, every company or business needs disaster recovery planning in almost every case or scenario. However, businesses that have effective disaster recovery strategies can handle the risk of disruptions and data threats easily.

Now, after analyzing the different categories of cyber security, let’s have a look at different types of cyber threats. There are various types of cyber threats like phishing, cyber crime, cyber attacks, malware, SQL injection, Attack Vectors, etc. 

• Phishing – Phishing is the process of sending fake communication signals that appear to be coming from a legal and safe source. It is mainly done with a fake email ID or some other fake communication form. However, phishing works by downloading or installing on the targeted computer and sending fake emails to the system. It is usually done in order to extract some useful information from the targeted computer like important credentials, personal information, bank account details, passwords used for security purposes, etc. 

• Cyber Crime – Cyber attacks, a generic term for various malicious activities, can manifest in different forms, such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks that overwhelm a system’s resources, disrupting its normal functioning. Malware, short for malicious software, is a common cyber threat that includes viruses, worms, and trojans. These programs are designed to infiltrate and damage computer systems, often spreading from one device to another.
• SQL – SQL injection is a specific type of cyber threat targeting databases. Attackers manipulate input fields to execute malicious SQL commands, potentially gaining unauthorized access to databases and compromising sensitive information. Understanding and fortifying against these injection techniques are critical components of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.
• Attack Vectors- Attack vectors encompass the various paths attackers use to gain unauthorized access to systems. These vectors can include software vulnerabilities, insecure network configurations, or even human error. Cybersecurity professionals employ proactive measures to identify and mitigate potential attack vectors, reducing the risk of security breaches.
• Malware – Malware is known as fake software that is developed mainly by hackers for the purpose of stealing data and information from the targeted systems by hackers. The term malware basically refers to viruses, worms, adware, spyware, trojan viruses, etc. However, malware attacks can be controlled by using specialized software designed for security, keeping stronger passwords  , and implementing authentic practices. 

In this dynamic landscape, staying informed about the evolving nature of cyber threats is crucial. Regular updates, threat intelligence sharing, and collaboration within the cybersecurity community are essential for developing effective defense mechanisms against the ever-changing tactics of cyber adversaries.