Digital Communication Security Flashcards
Define the term virus.
A virus is a computer program designed to damage some aspect of an information system
List three methods of protecting information systems from misuse.
- Virus protection
- Firewalls
- Backups
List three types of virus.
- Worms
- Trojan horses
- Spyware
Explain how worms work.
Worms spread by replication.
They don’t have to be attached to a file.
They slow down processing speed as they reproduce.
Explain how trojan horses work.
Trojan horses provide an entry point into a computer system for hackers by misleading the user into thinking that they are downloading a useful program.
Explain how spyware works.
Spyware is malicious software secretly installed on a computer.
It collects personal user information over a period of time without the user’s knowledge or consent.
Explain how virus protection systems work.
They scan the computer for threats.
If the computer contains a virus, the user will be notified.
Explain how firewalls work.
- Firewalls monitor and control incoming and outgoing traffic on a network
- They can prevent hackers, viruses and spam from entering the network via the internet
- They can prevent users within the network from uploading to the internet
Explain how a backup works.
Backups ensure that there is a copy of the data that can be loaded on to the system if the original is lost.
Why should backups be carried out regularly?
To minimise the amount of data lost.
Name two places where data can be backed up to.
- Magnetic tape
2. External hard disk
Give three advantages of Wi-Fi
- No wires
- Wide range of devices use it
- Prices are falling
Give three disadvantages of Wi-Fi
- Signal strength decreases with distance
- Not as secure as wired
- Affected by the weather
Give three advantages of 3G
- Remains available if broadband is not
- Map and GPS are still available
- Video calling is still possible
Give three disadvantages of 3G
- Network coverage is required
- Can be expensive
- Causes increased power consumption