What Exactly Does Cyber Security do?

Cybersecurity is the practice of safeguarding internet-connected devices and services from malicious attacks by hackers, spammers, and cybercriminals. Companies employ cybersecurity measures to protect against phishing schemes, ransomware attacks, identity theft, data breaches, and financial losses.

In today’s world, daily life is increasingly dependent on technology. From near-instant access to information on the Internet to the modern conveniences provided by smart home automation technology and the Internet of Things, the benefits of technological advancement are immense.

However, with these advancements come potential threats that lurk behind every device and platform. Despite society’s optimistic view of modern technology, the risks posed by cyber security threats are a genuine concern.

The steady rise in cybercrime highlights the vulnerabilities in the devices and services we’ve come to depend on. This concern forces us to ask what cybersecurity is, why it’s essential, and what we can learn about it.

So, what is cybersecurity, and how serious are today’s cyber security threats? Let’s explore these questions in detail.

What is Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is a field focused on defending devices and services from electronic attacks by malicious actors such as hackers, spammers, and cybercriminals. While some components of cybersecurity are designed to proactively strike first, most professionals today concentrate on determining the best ways to protect all assets, from computers and smartphones to networks and databases, from attacks.

In the media, “cybersecurity” is often used as a catch-all term to describe protection against all forms of cybercrime, from identity theft to international digital warfare. These labels are accurate but fail to convey the true nature of cybersecurity to those without a background in computer science or digital industries. To gain a deeper understanding and practical skills, consider enrolling in online cybersecurity courses designed to make the complexities of cybersecurity accessible to everyone.

Cisco Systems, a tech conglomerate specializing in networking, the cloud, and security, defines cybersecurity as “…the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. These cyberattacks are usually aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information; extorting money from users; or interrupting normal business processes.”

Why is Cybersecurity Important?

In today’s digital world, cybersecurity cannot be ignored. A single security breach can expose the personal information of millions of people, causing significant financial damage to companies and eroding customer trust. Therefore, cybersecurity is essential to protect businesses and individuals from spammers and cybercriminals.

The Scale of the Cyber Security Threat

Forbes predicts that 2024 will present a variety of cyber security challenges, from supply chain disruptions and increased risks associated with smart devices to a continued shortage of cybersecurity talent.

Cybercrime Magazine estimates that cybercrime will cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, with global cybercrime costs predicted to rise by almost 15 percent yearly over the next four years.

Factors such as the pandemic, the rise of cryptocurrency, and the increase in remote work create a target-rich environment for cybercriminals.

What Exactly Does Cyber Security do?

Cybersecurity encompasses technologies, processes, and methods to defend computer systems, data, and networks from attacks. To fully understand what cybersecurity is and how it works, we must divide it into several subdomains:

1. Application Security

Application security involves implementing various defenses in an organization’s software and services against a range of threats. This subdomain requires cybersecurity experts to write secure code, design secure application architectures, and implement robust data input validation to minimize the chance of unauthorized access or modification of application resources.

2. Cloud Security

Cloud security focuses on creating secure cloud architectures and applications for companies using cloud service providers like Amazon Web Services, Google, Azure, and Rackspace.

3. Identity Management and Data Security

This subdomain covers activities, frameworks, and processes that enable the authorization and authentication of legitimate individuals to an organization’s information systems. These measures include implementing strong information storage mechanisms to secure data in transit or at rest, as well as using multi-factor authentication protocols.

5. Mobile Security

Mobile security is crucial today as more people rely on mobile devices. This subdomain protects organizational and personal information stored on mobile devices like tablets, cell phones, and laptops from threats such as unauthorized access, device loss or theft, malware, and viruses. Mobile security also employs authentication and user education to enhance security.

6. Network Security

Network security encompasses hardware and software mechanisms that protect the network and infrastructure from disruptions, unauthorized access, and other abuses. Effective network security safeguards organizational assets against a wide range of threats from both within and outside the organization.

7. Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Planning

Not all threats are human-based. This subdomain covers processes, alerts, monitoring, and plans designed to help organizations maintain business-critical systems during and after incidents such as massive power outages, fires, and natural disasters. It also focuses on resuming and recovering lost operations and systems after such incidents.

8. Identity and Access Management (IAM)

IAM involves ensuring that only authorized individuals have access to the information and systems they need to perform their jobs. This includes using authentication methods such as passwords, biometrics, and multi-factor authentication to verify user identities and regulate their access to sensitive data.

9. Risk Management

Risk management is a critical component of cybersecurity, involving the identification, assessment, and prioritization of risks followed by coordinated efforts to minimize, monitor, and control the probability or impact of unfortunate events. It involves developing a risk management plan, implementing controls to mitigate identified risks, and continuously monitoring and reviewing risks.

10. Compliance and Legal Requirements

Cybersecurity also ensures that organizations comply with relevant legal and regulatory requirements related to data protection and privacy. This includes adhering to standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).

Types of Cyber Threats

Cybercrime involves any unauthorized activity that uses a computer, device, or network. Generally, cybercrimes fall into three categories: computer-assisted crimes, crimes where the computer itself is the target, and crimes where the computer is incidental to the crime rather than directly related.

Common cyber threats include:

• Cyberterrorism: Politically motivated attacks on computers and information technology designed to cause harm and create widespread social disruption.
• Malware: Includes ransomware, spyware, viruses, and worms. Malware can install harmful software, block access to computer resources, disrupt systems, or covertly transmit information from data storage.
• Trojans: Attacks that trick users into thinking they’re opening a harmless file, which then attacks the system and often establishes a backdoor for cybercriminals.
• Botnets: Large-scale cyberattacks conducted by remotely controlled malware-infected devices, creating a network of compromised computers under a single command.
• Adware: Malicious advertisement-supported software that installs without permission and generates unwanted online advertisements.
• SQL Injection: An attack that inserts malicious code into a server using Structured Query Language.
• Phishing: False communications, often via email, that trick recipients into providing personal information or installing malware.
• Man-in-the-middle Attack: Hackers insert themselves into a two-person online transaction to filter and steal data, often occurring on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.
• Denial of Service (DoS): Cyberattacks that flood a network or computer with overwhelming “handshake” processes, rendering the system incapable of responding to user requests.

As data breaches, hacking, and cybercrime reach new heights, companies increasingly rely on cybersecurity experts to identify potential threats and protect valuable data. The cybersecurity market is expected to grow from $217 billion in 2021 to $345 billion by 2026, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.7% from 2021 to 2026.

The Advantages of Cybersecurity

Today’s cybersecurity industry primarily focuses on protecting devices and systems from attackers. While the intricate details of these efforts can be challenging to visualize, the effects are evident. Without cybersecurity professionals, many websites would be nearly impossible to access due to denial-of-service attack attempts. Imagine losing access to communities of experts and certified professionals offering tips and advice to help achieve professional goals.

Without robust cybersecurity defenses, essential modern-day infrastructures like power grids and water treatment facilities could be easily compromised, disrupting daily life.

In essence, cybersecurity is crucial because it preserves the lifestyles we have come to rely on and enjoy.

Cybersecurity Myths

Cyberattacks are growing in frequency and sophistication, making it imperative for organizations and individuals to protect themselves. Unfortunately, several misconceptions about cybersecurity prevent people from taking necessary actions to safeguard sensitive information.

Common cybersecurity myths include:

• Passwords Alone Are Enough: Solely relying on passwords for security is insufficient. While strong passwords are essential, cybercriminals may still find ways to hack them. Implementing robust, multi-layered cybersecurity measures is necessary.
• Deleting Files from the Computer: Deleting data only moves it to the Recycle Bin, and emptying the Recycle Bin doesn’t permanently remove it. Data remains in the hard drive and can often be recovered.
• Encryption Is Unnecessary: Some believe their systems are already encrypted and secure. However, encryption is essential for making data difficult to read, adding an extra layer of security.
• Small Businesses Are Not Targeted: Smaller companies often assume they are not targets due to having less data than larger companies. However, small and medium businesses are frequently targeted due to less stringent security protocols.
• My Device Will Not Be Hacked: Cyberattacks are continuously evolving. Even with antivirus and antimalware software, devices may still be susceptible to attacks if software is not regularly updated.

Cybersecurity Technologies and Best Practices

While sophisticated technology can be beneficial, it can also be a double-edged sword. Here are some crucial tips for enhancing cybersecurity:

• Use VPNs: Virtual private networks mask IP addresses and encrypt internet traffic to shield online actions from prying eyes, especially on public connections.
• Check Links Before Clicking: Always double-check links or attachments from unknown sources.
• Use Strong Passwords: Secure passwords include capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Use different passwords for different accounts and a password manager to store them.
• Scan External Devices for Viruses: Before using external storage devices like flash drives or hard drives, ensure they are virus-free.
• Store Sensitive Information Securely: Protect sensitive data with encryption.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for hackers to access accounts.
• Verify HTTPS: Ensure websites have HTTPS in the address bar, indicating a secure connection.
• Remove Adware: Promptly remove any suspected adware.
• Disable Bluetooth: Turn off Bluetooth when not in use to prevent unauthorized access.
• Avoid Public Networks: Refrain from accessing personal accounts on public networks. If necessary, use a VPN.
• Invest in Security Upgrades: Stay updated on the latest security technology and regularly update software.
• Employ White-Hat Hackers: Ethical hackers can identify and fix vulnerabilities before malicious hackers exploit them.

Cyber Safety Tips

The following tips can help ensure systems remain free from cyber threats:

• Keep Software Up-to-Date: Regularly update operating systems, browsers, antivirus, and other critical software to ensure they have the latest patches and fixes.
• Avoid Opening Suspicious Emails: Never open email attachments or click on links from unknown sources. Phishing emails are a common method for hackers to gain access.
• Use Antivirus and Antimalware Software: These tools detect and remove malicious software from devices.
• Encrypt Data: Encryption ensures intercepted data remains unreadable without the encryption key.
• Use Strong Passwords: Choose complex passwords and change them regularly. Consider using a password manager.
• Backup Data: Regularly back up important files to prevent data loss from ransomware attacks.
• Be Cautious of Phishing Scams: Always verify the source of emails and messages requesting sensitive information.
• Use Two-Factor Authentication: Adding an extra security layer makes it harder for attackers to access accounts.
• Do Not Reuse Passwords: Each account should have a unique password to prevent one breach from compromising multiple accounts.

What is Cybersecurity and the CIA Triad?

The principles of cybersecurity start with the CIA triad, which stands for:

• Confidentiality: Ensuring only authorized parties can access sensitive information.
• Integrity: Allowing only authorized individuals to alter, add, or remove sensitive information, ensuring its accuracy and completeness.
• Availability: Ensuring information and systems are accessible to those who need them.

The CIA triad is a fundamental cybersecurity concept, providing a simple yet comprehensive high-level checklist for evaluating security procedures and tools.

How to Become a Cybersecurity Expert

Today’s cybersecurity experts must stay updated on the latest security trends and continuously train to keep their skills current. They must update their tactics, techniques, and procedures to protect their organizations from the latest cyber threats. Cybersecurity experts identify potential threats, monitor systems for unusual activity, install updates to keep software current, and strengthen security measures to prevent cyberattacks.

If you’re interested in a career in cybersecurity, start by getting certified. Certifications are essential for proving your skills and knowledge in the field. Top certifications include Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Online training platforms offer courses and certifications to help you become a cybersecurity expert.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is a critical aspect of modern life, protecting the digital world we rely on. As technology advances, so do the threats, making cybersecurity an ever-evolving field. Whether you’re a business owner or an individual, understanding and implementing cybersecurity measures is vital to safeguard against digital threats and ensure a secure and reliable digital environment.