1.4.3 Online Security and Attacks Flashcards
1
Q
What is a virus?
A
- A virus is a program or piece of software
- It is a program that copies itself …
- … in order to damage or destroy files files
- Often causes the computer to crash
2
Q
How can I protect myself from a virus?
A
- Install anti-virus software
- Don’t use software from uknown sources
- Be careful when opening attachments
3
Q
What does antivirus software do?
A
- Scans files for virus
- Also checks data before it is downloaded
- Can constantly run in the background
- Can run scheduled scans
- Automatically updates virus definitions
- Can quarantine or delete a virus
4
Q
What is a Spyware?
A
- Spyware is a program or piece of software
- It records the key presses on the users keyboard …
- … and sendsback the key presses to the creator
- Data can be analysed to find user passwords
5
Q
How can I protect myself from spyware?
A
- Install anti-spyware software
- Input random characters (of a password)
- Use drop down menus (instead of key presses)
- Generate time sensitive pins that change regularly
6
Q
What does anti spyware software do?
A
- Finds and removes spyware installed on a computer
- Stops the recording of key presses …
7
Q
What is a Hacking?
A
- The act of gaining illegal access to a computer system …
- …without the owners consent or knowledge
8
Q
How can I protect myself from hacking?
A
- Install anti-hacking software
- Use firewalls
- Use strong passwords
9
Q
What are the consequences of hacking?
A
- Can lead to identity theft
- Can lead to the loss of personal information
- Data can be deleted, changed or corrupted
10
Q
What is a hacker?
A
A person who tries to gain illegal access to a computer or a network
11
Q
What is a cracker?
A
Someone who edits program source code usually for a malicious purpose
12
Q
What is cracking?
A
The act of illegally changing the source code of a program so that it can be exploited for another use
13
Q
Explain what is meant by a DOS attack
A
- Denial of Service (DoS) attack
- A large number of requests are sent to the network or server all at the same tim
- Designed to flood a network/server with useless traffic/requests
- The network/server will come to a halt trying to deal with all the traffic/requests
- Prevents users from gaining access to a website/server
14
Q
What are the signs of a DOS attack?
A
- Slow network performance e.g. accessing websites
- Unable to access particular websites or files
15
Q
How can you prevent a DOS attack?
A
- Using an up-to-date malware/virus checker
- Setting up a firewalls to restrict traffic to a server
- Applying email filters to manage unwanted spam.
- Be careful when opening attachments