Cybersecurity is the practice of defending computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks. It’s also known as information technology security or electronic information security.
The term “cybersecurity” applies in a variety of contexts, from business to mobile computing, and can be divided into a few common categories.
- Network Security
- Application SEcurity
- Information Security
- Operation Security
The scale of the cyber threat
The global cyber threat continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with a rising number of data breaches each year. A report by RiskBased Security revealed that a shocking 7.9 billion records have been exposed by data breaches in the first nine months of 2019 alone. This figure is more than double (112%) the number of records exposed in the same period in 2018.
Medical services, retailers and public entities experienced the most breaches, with malicious criminals responsible for most incidents. Some of these sectors are more appealing to cybercriminals because they collect financial and medical data, but all businesses that use networks can be targeted for customer data, corporate espionage, or customer attacks
There are a number of different types of malware, including:
- Virus: A self-replicating program that attaches itself to clean file and spreads throughout a computer system, infecting files with malicious code.
- Trojans: A type of malware that is disguised as legitimate software. Cybercriminals trick users into uploading Trojans onto their computer where they cause damage or collect data.
- Spyware: A program that secretly records what a user does, so that cybercriminals can make use of this information. For example, spyware could capture credit card details.
- Ransomware: Malware which locks down a user’s files and data, with the threat of erasing it unless a ransom is paid.
- Adware: Advertising software which can be used to spread malware.
- Botnets: Networks of malware infected computers which cybercriminals use to perform tasks online without the user’s permission.
Cybersecurity essentials are the fundamental practices and principles used to protect computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, attacks, and damage. They focus on maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA triad) of information through measures such as network and endpoint security, application and data protection, and identity and access management. Key practices include using strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, regular software updates, data backups, and user education to prevent threats like malware, phishing, and insider attacks. Following security policies, frameworks, and standards such as NIST, ISO 27001, and CIS Controls ensures a structured approach to identifying risks, detecting threats, and responding effectively to cybersecurity incidents.
