Cybersecurity is the practice of
protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. The
cyberattacks are usually aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive
information; extorting money from users; or interrupting normal business processes.
Implementing effective cybersecurity
measures is particularly challenging today because there are more devices than
people, and attackers are becoming more innovative.
What is cybersecurity all about?
A successful cybersecurity approach has multiple layers of protection spread across the computers, networks, programs, or data that one intends to keep safe. Technology is essential to giving organizations and individuals the computer security tools needed to protect themselves from cyber-attacks.
Three main entities must be protected: endpoint devices like computers, smart devices, and routers; networks; and the cloud. Common technology used to protect these entities include next-generation firewalls, DNS filtering, malware protection, antivirus software, and email security solutions.
Why is cybersecurity important?
In today’s connected world, everyone
benefits from advanced cyber defense programs. At an individual level, a
cybersecurity attack can result in everything from identity theft, to extortion
attempts, to the loss of important data like family photos.
Types of cybersecurity threats
· 1. Phishing
Phishing is the practice of sending fraudulent
emails that resemble emails from reputable sources. The aim is to steal
sensitive data like credit card numbers and login information. It’s the most
common type of cyber attack.
· 2. Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malicious
software. It is designed to extort money by blocking access to files or the
computer system until the ransom is paid. Paying the ransom does not guarantee
that the files will be recovered or the system restored.
· 3. Malware
Malware is a type of software designed to
gain unauthorized access or to cause damage to a computer.
· 4. Social engineering
Social engineering is a tactic that
adversaries use to trick you into revealing sensitive information. They can
solicit a monetary payment or gain access to your confidential data.
What is cybercrime?
Cybercrime is criminal activity that either targets or uses a computer, a computer network or a networked device.
How to protect yourself against
cybercrime
· 1. Keep software and
operating system updated
Keeping your software and operating system
up to date ensures that you benefit from the latest security patches to protect
your computer.
· 2. Use anti-virus software
and keep it updated
Using anti-virus or a comprehensive
internet security solution like Kaspersky Total Security is a smart way to
protect your system from attacks. Anti-virus software allows you to scan,
detect and remove threats before they become a problem. If you use anti-virus
software, make sure you keep it updated to get the best level of protection.
· 3. Use strong passwords
Be sure to use strong passwords that
people will not guess and do not record them anywhere. Or use a reputable
password manager to generate strong passwords randomly to make this easier.
· 4. Never open attachments in
spam emails
A classic way that computers get infected
by malware attacks and other forms of cybercrime is via email attachments in
spam emails.
· 5. Do not click on links in
spam emails or untrusted websites
Another way people become victims of
cybercrime is by clicking on links in spam emails or other messages, or
unfamiliar websites. Avoid doing this to stay safe online.
· 6. Do not give out personal
information unless secure
Never give out personal data over the
phone or via email unless you are completely sure the line or email is secure.
· 7. Be mindful of which
website URLs you visit
Keep an eye on the URLs you are clicking
on. Do they look legitimate? Avoid clicking on links with unfamiliar or spammy
looking URLs.
· 8. Keep an eye on your bank statements
Keep an eye on your bank statements and
query any unfamiliar transactions with the bank.
Written By- Violet Priscilla S
Edited By - Anamika Malik
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