The Digital Fences

 

   Network security is an important topic that I feel is not elaborated on enough when we talk about technology and the negative effects of it. It is very important for individuals and organizations to have information and security systems in place to prevent attacks within the database and a breach of private information about themselves, the company, or the clients. Some of these threats can include stealing one's private information that is referred to as “Personally Identifiable Information”, which includes social security numbers, insurance numbers and passport numbers that are input into a site, and can lead to identity fraud. Identity fraud can range from taking one's money to even messing up someone's credit score. Oftentimes, Cyber Criminals try to make money off of information when these attacks are committed by pretending to be an important organization, as in a bank, and will get your information to hack you. Having a secure network will prevent these criminals from getting access to valuable information and keep individuals and organizations safe. 

    Computer systems are highly vulnerable to malware and ransomware attacks due to outdated software, weak passwords, and lack of proper security measures. Malware is malicious software designed to infiltrate and damage computer systems, while ransomware specifically encrypts data and demands payment for its release. Attackers often distribute malware through malicious email attachments, infected software downloads, or compromised websites. Once a system is compromised, users may experience sluggish performance, unauthorized data access, or complete system lockdown. Ransomware can paralyze entire organizations, leading to financial losses and disrupted operations. For instance, the WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017 affected thousands of systems worldwide, crippling hospitals, businesses, and government agencies. To protect against malware and ransomware, users should implement robust security practices. First, keeping software and operating systems up to date with security patches can close vulnerabilities. Second, organizations should regularly back up important data to prevent loss in case of an attack. Using reputable antivirus software and employing multi-factor authentication (MFA) can also enhance protection. 

    

    Phishing is a deceptive cyberattack where criminals impersonate legitimate entities to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial details. These attacks often occur via email, text messages (smishing), or fraudulent websites designed to mimic trusted organizations. When a phishing attack succeeds, victims may unknowingly provide their personal data, leading to identity theft, financial fraud, or unauthorized access to corporate networks. High-profile breaches, such as the 2016 attack on John Podesta’s email account, demonstrate how phishing can be used to manipulate individuals and gain access to confidential information. To mitigate phishing risks, users should be educated on recognizing suspicious emails, links, and attachments. Organizations should implement email filtering solutions to block malicious messages and encourage employees to verify requests for sensitive information. Enforcing strong password policies and utilizing security tools like anti-phishing browser extensions can further reduce the likelihood of successful phishing attempts.

    

    As cyber threats continue to evolve, information and system security remain paramount for individuals and organizations. Malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks pose significant risks, but implementing proactive security measures can help mitigate these threats. Regular software updates, employee training, and robust security protocols are essential in safeguarding digital assets. By staying vigilant and adopting best practices, users can reduce their exposure to cyberattacks and ensure a secure computing environment.

    

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 Kumar, A., & Guleria, K. (2024). Comprehensive Analysis and Detection of Multi-Step CyberAttacks: Insights from the Multi-Step Cyber-Attack Dataset. 2024 8th International Conference on Electronics, Communication and Aerospace Technology (ICECA), Electronics, Communication and Aerospace Technology (ICECA), 2024 8th International Conference On, 561–564. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICECA63461.2024.10801010

    

    TestOut Corp. (2024). CertMaster Learn Tech+. http://www.testout.com