cyber security threats

Question 1

What is cyber security?

Answer 1

Aims to protect networks, data, programs and computers against damage, cyber attacks and unauthorized access.

Question 2

What do cyber attacks target?

Answer 2

• individuals
• organisations
• governments

Question 3

What is malware?

Answer 3

(malicious software)
code designed to harm or gain unauthorised access to a computer system.
often installed without knowledge or consent

Question 4

How can malware get onto a device?

Answer 4

• downloaded in email attachment

- hidden on removeable media (USB drive or SD card)

Question 5

What are typical actions of malware? (5)

Answer 5

• deleting or modifying files
• locking files (e.g. ransomware encrypts it, demands money for decryption code)
• displaying unwanted ads
• monitoring user (spyware)
• altering permissions (rootkits give hackers access to devices)

Question 6

How is malware spread between devices?

Answer 6

• viruses attach to certain files-> users spread them by copying files and activate by opening them
• worms-> basically viruses but self-replicate. exploit weakness in network security
• trojans -> disguised as legitimate software. don’t replicate - users install them without realising they are malware

Question 7

What is phishing?

Answer 7

• When criminals send emails or texts to people claiming to be from a well-known business -> emails often lead to fake website
• often sent to thousands of people hoping someone might actually open them
• most browsers and programs have anti-phishing features
• have very easy tells -> poor grammar