What is a Cyber Security?

Introduction

Cyber security targets network, computer, and program security by protecting data, programs, and networks from unauthorized access. The term “cyber security” covers a wide range of security measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, anti-virus software, and more.

Cybersecurity is a growing concern for businesses and individuals alike. With the increasing reliance on technology and the growing number of cybersecurity attacks, it is more critical than ever to understand and implement proper cybersecurity measures.

A variety of cyber security measures can be implemented depending on the level of protection required. The most basic measure is to install and maintain a firewall. A firewall is a type of software that prevents unauthorized access to a computer or network. Intrusion detection systems, anti-virus software, and more.

Password attacks are one of the most common ways that private and business data is compromised. A password attack is when a hacker tries to steal your password. In 2020, compromised credentials were to blame for 81% of data breaches. Passwords are becoming less secure because they can only have so many letters and numbers. Since many passwords are badly crafted, hackers will continue to utilize password attacks as long as passwords are used.

1. Phishing Attacks

Attacks known as “phishing” include delivering false communications that seem to be from a reliable source. Email is commonly used for this. The intention is to steal personal information like credit card numbers and login credentials or to infect the victim’s computer with malware. Everyone should become aware of phishing, a prevalent form of cyberattack, in order to defend oneself.

Learn More about Phishing Attacks: https://www.cisco.com/c/en_in/products/security/email security/what-is-phishing.html

To lessen the risk of man-in-the-middle assaults:

How does phishing work?

Phishing begins with a phony email or other communication meant to seduce a target. The communication is crafted to appear to be from a reputable sender. If the victim falls for it, they may be persuaded to divulge private information, frequently on a fraudulent website. Malware may also occasionally be downloaded onto the target’s machine.

What are the dangers of phishing attacks?

Attackers may be content to obtain a victim’s credit card number or other personal information in exchange for money.  Phishing emails are occasionally sent in an attempt to obtain employee login credentials or other information for use in a sophisticated attack on a particular company. Phishing is a common starting point for cybercrime attacks like advanced persistent threats (APTs) and ransomware.

How do I protect myself against phishing attacks?

It is critical to educate your users about your company. All employees should participate in education. High-ranking officials are frequently the target of phishing attacks. Students should learn how to spot fake emails and what to do if they arrive. Exercises that simulate phishing attacks are essential for gauging how your staff will respond to one.

Security technology

Phishing attempts cannot be stopped by a single cybersecurity tool. Instead, enterprises must employ a multi-layered strategy to lower the severity of any attacks that do happen and cut down on their frequency. Network security technologies include access control, malware protection, email security, and malware detection.
Types of Phishing Attacks
(i) Spear Phishing.
(ii) Whalers.
(iii) Smishing.
(iv) Vishing.

2. Man-in-the-Middle Attack

An attack called a man-in-the-middle (MitM) occurs when a hacker stands between uncompromised parties and decodes data passing between them. Jeremy can act as the man in the middle if Alice and Bob are exchanging notes in class but Jeremy needs to relay those notes.

In a similar vein, Equifax removed its apps from Google Play and App Stores in 2017 because they were sending sensitive data over unsecured channels. This made it possible for hackers to steal user data.

Learn More about Man-in-the-middle Attacks: https://www.veracode.com/security/man-middle-attack To lessen the risk of man-in-the-middle assaults:

Set your router’s encryption to “ON”. “Sniffer” technology enables anyone with access to your modem and router to view the data passing through them.

Use two-factor authentication and strong credentials. There are a lot of default usernames and passwords for routers.

If a hacker is able to access your router’s administration, they could redirect all of your traffic to their infected servers. Apply for a VPN. By using a secure virtual private network (VPN), you can avoid man-in-the-middle attacks.

3. Brute Force Attack

A brute force attack is like using a battering ram and a password is like using a key to open a door. In 22 seconds, a hacker will try 2.18 trillion different password/username combinations, and if your password is weak, they might decide to target your account.

Learn More about Brute Force Attacks: https://www.fortinet.com/resources/cyberglossary/brute-force attack.

To assist in avoiding brute force attacks:

Make your password complex. A mixed case, mixed character, the ten-digit password is very different from an all lowercase, all alphabetic, six-digit password.

A successful brute force attack is less likely as your password complexity rises.

Set up and enable remote access. If your business employs remote access management, inquire with the IT department.

An access management technology like OneLogin will lessen the chance of a brute-force attack.

4. Dictionary Attack

We tend to choose “basic” words for our passwords; hackers have compiled the most popular words into “cracking dictionaries”.

More sophisticated dictionary attacks use words that are significant to you personally, such as your birthplace, a child’s name, or the name of a pet.

Learn More about Dictionary Attacks:

https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/what-is-a-dictionary-attack/

To lessen the chance of a dictionary attack:

Never use a word from a dictionary as your password. It should never be a part of your password if you’ve read it in a book.

Consider using a password management system if you must use a password rather than an access management tool.

Lock accounts when a password is unsuccessful too often. Being locked out of your account when you temporarily forget your password can be inconvenient, but the alternative often leads to insecurity.

Before your application instructs you to cool down, give yourself five or fewer attempts.

Think about purchasing a password manager. Dictionary assaults are less likely because password managers automatically create complex passwords.

5. Credential Stuffing

Hacks usually expose your previous passwords and post them on dubious websites. Accounts that never changed their passwords after a breach are vulnerable to credential stuffing. In the hopes that the victim’s previous login and password were never updated, hackers will test various combinations of these data.

Learn More about Credential Stuffing Attacks: https://www.cloudflare.com/en-gb/learning/bots/what-is credential-stuffing/

In order to combat credential stuffing:
Follow up on your accounts. Using free services like haveIbeenpwned.com, you may determine whether your email address is connected to any recent data breaches. But there are also commercial services that will keep an eye on your online personas.

Change your passwords frequently. A hacker is more likely to find a way to crack a password the longer it remains uncracked.

Make use of a password manager. Many credential-stuffing attacks, like dictionary attacks, can be avoided by using a strong and secure password. Password managers keep them up-to-date.

6. Keyloggers

Malicious software called keyloggers records each keystroke and sends the information to a hacker. Typically, a user will download the program thinking it is safe, only for it to secretly install a keylogger.

Learn More about Keyloggers Attacks: https://www.bigscal.com/blogs/cyber-security/what-is-keylogger/ To avoid being a victim of keyloggers:

Verify your physical equipment. Someone with access to your workstation could install a hardware keylogger there to capture your keystrokes. Make sure you are familiar with all of the hardware by performing routine inspections of your computer and the area around it.

Conduct a virus check. Make sure your computer is free of malware with a reliable antivirus program. Antivirus service providers keep track of the most common malware keyloggers, and these dangers are noted as such.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cyber security is a process or set of procedures intended to guard electronic information and data from unauthorized access or attack. There are many different types of cyber security, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The most effective way to protect yourself is to understand the threats and take steps to protect your own data. Share this article with your friends and family and start a conversation about cyber security today.