Cybersecurity is the means or practice of defending computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks.
It is the method by which individuals and organisations reduce the risk of cyber attacks.
Simply put, the major function of cyber security is to protect our devices and the services we access from theft. We use smartphones, laptops, tablets and computers both online and offline. Cybersecurity prevents unauthorised access to our personal information stored online and on devices.
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Types of cyber security
There are seven (7) main types of cyber security:
1. Network Security
This focuses on making computer networks secure from unauthorised access, data breaches and other network-based threats.
2. Application Security
It is focused on securing software applications and preventing vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. It also involves secure coding practices, regular software updates and patches, and application-level firewalls.
3. Information or Data Security
This is concerned with protecting sensitive information from unauthorised access, disclosure or destruction. It includes Encryption, Access controls, Data classification, and Data loss prevention (DLP) measures.
4. Cloud Security
It secures data, applications, and infrastructure hosted on cloud platforms, and ensures appropriate access controls, data protection, and compliance. It uses various cloud service providers to ensure security against multiple threats.
5. Mobile Security
Involves securing personal data stored on mobile devices such as cell phones, tablets, and other similar devices against malicious threats.
6. Endpoint security
Secures individual devices like computers, laptops, smartphones, and IoT devices. It includes antivirus software, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), device encryption, regular software updates, etc.
7. Critical Infrastructure Security
Includes all of the physical and virtual resources, systems, and networks that are essential for a society’s economics, security, or combination of the above to run smoothly.
Apart from these seven, the other types known to most people are network security, cloud security and physical security.
Our operating systems and network architecture constitute network security; cloud security is all about the encryption of cloud data; and physical security concerns the control of access to computers and devices physically.
The Importance of Cyber Security
Why is cyber security so important? It is because the world is in a digital age that cyber security is of the highest importance.
In other words, a single security breach can have far-reaching consequences in today’s digitalised world. Let us look at a few of its importance.
1. It protects sensitive data, e.g. customer information and trade secrets, against unauthorised access and compromise.
2. It safeguards all types of data against theft and loss.
3. It improves cyber posture.
4. It helps to maintain trust and credibility.
5. It commands better data management in organisations and the world at large.
Obtaining a certification in cyber security has been advised and recommended by most companies. This is because it would help people protect their data instead of them waiting to be attacked which will only amount to a case of ‘medicine after death’.
Therefore, it is informative to know some of the threats in cyber security. Some of them are:
- Phishing
A form of social engineering where fraudulent email or text messages resembling those from reputable or known sources are sent. Oftentimes random attacks, the intent of these messages is to steal sensitive data such as credit card or login information.
- Malware
A form of malicious software in which any file or program can be used to harm a computer user. Different types of malware include worms, viruses, Trojans and spyware.
- Ransomware
A type of malware that involves an attacker locking the victim’s computer system files – typically through encryption – and demanding a payment to decrypt and unlock them.
- Spear phishing
A type of phishing that has an intended target user, organisation or business.
- Social engineering
An attack that relies on human interaction. It tricks users into breaking security procedures to gain sensitive information that is typically protected.
Ways to mitigate cyber security threats
The importance of cyber security cannot be overemphasised. With so many breaches taking place: registered and unregistered, cyber security has been introduced to curb this digital pandemic.
Measures have been introduced to tackle this menace and some of them are:
1. Cloud Transformation
Organisations should work with their cloud providers to ensure that adequate security controls are in place. They should also consider using a cloud security platform to help manage and monitor their cloud environment.
2. Maintaining Customers’ Trust
Businesses must invest in installing firewalls, encrypting data, and creating secure passwords.
3. Strong Passwords
Individuals should use strong passwords and be aware of any change that is happening on their devices without their permission.
Conclusion
This article addresses just a few points. Take good care of your business and personal data. You do this by taking appropriate steps towards that cause. Cyber security is the new digital saviour. Endeavour to hold on to it steadfastly.
Researched by: Safiya Onayi Ahmed
