Cybersecurity refers to the protection of computers, computer-related systems, networks, hardware and software from hackers. The main purpose is to save important data and avoid unethical use of network systems. Moreover, cybersecurity is a proactive approach that protects the computer’s hardware, software, applications and all digital assets from any kind of cyberattack.

PURPOSE OF CYBERSECURITY

The main aim of cybersecurity is to prevent the organizations from data / information loss, security breech and cyberattack. Most of the organizations invest millions of dollars in cybersecurity to make their data safe and protect it so that it cannot be used for illegal purposes. Cybersecurity ensures business success by blocking unauthorized access to the internal infrastructure which boost customer’s satisfaction and their confidence.

CAUSES OF CYBERATTACK

Putting away information in a little space makes it simpler for programmers and engineers to take information in the blink of an eye and use it for their own benefit. Thus, it is prompted not to store all the vital information on the framework and isolate it in better places. There are several weak loop holes from where intruders can attack your system but now let’s have a look on causes of cybercrime.

• Unpatched vulnerabilities
• Complex and unprofessional coding
• Human error
• Negligence
• Loss of evidence
• Data carrying hardware like USB or Flash Drive
• Insider misuse

CATEGORIES OF CYBERSECURITY

1. NETWORK SECURITY

Protection of network and network systems from intruders and hackers is known as network security.

2. DATA SECURITY

Usually, hackers and attackers harm your data or misuse it while accessing your personal computers. Study of hiding that sensitive data from intruders is called data security.

3. APPLICATION SECURITY

This term refers to protect web-applications and software from malware attacks. Hackers can harm your application and gain access to sensitive data.

4. DATABASE SECURITY

Protecting the database of a company is also very important. Government agencies and multinational companies have huge database centers.

5. CLOUD SECURITY

Protection of your internet-based data is known as browser security. Intruders can change your network data or misuse it for some illegal activity.

TYPES OF CYBER ATTACKS

Cyber threats harm millions of people and companies daily. It is becoming an alarming situation for security providers to protect the trillion bytes data. Intruders can attack in the following ways:

MALICIOUS APPLICATIONS

Whenever you download an application from an unknown source or Play Store, it asks you for a list of permission to allow. Most of the users blindly give access to photos, documents and personal files and got attacked. This negligence allows the intruders to have access and misuse them.

INSECURE WI-FI

Most of the hangout places and restaurants have open Wi-Fi or Insecure Wi-Fi. These open Wi-Fi seems so cheerful and exciting, but these excitements can be ruined when intruders gain access to your sensitive information through week loopholes established through insecure Wi-Fi. This network seems original but actually it is the attack by a hacker.

LACK OF END TO END ENCRYPTION

In this modern era, majority of communication is held through mobile devices like daily conversations, email sharing and file transfers. In offices and companies usually employees do not care of privacy and it harms them. So this communication is unencrypted thus it leaves the door open for intruders and hackers to steal data.

LOST OR STOLEN DEVICE

Hackers can perceive what destinations your workers visit on their gadgets and which applications are connected to your corporate information and private correspondence. Most occasions clients are signed onto the applications on their gadgets so intruders won’t need to sort out passwords to open the information.

BRING-YOUR-OWN-DEVICE (BYOD) RISKS

BYOD risks refer to the unprotected and open smart phones that connect to the networks and gain access to the device. In this way, they can easily attack the device and misuse it. Usually, it harms the data of employees where there are several connections at one place.

MALWARE

Malware is a suspicious software like email or link that can harm your data. It gets the access to your system when you click unnecessary email or link. Once you clicked, it can steal your data, delete it, or misuse your sensitive information. Moreover, it can also block your access to your website or files.

PHISHING

In phishing, attackers demand your sensitive information through emails as if they belong to some legal organization. In this way, they get access to data like account number, credit card information, or login details.

MAN-IN-THE-MIDDLE ATTACK

As the term suggests, in this attack criminals lie in between two parties and steal the information without being notified to anyone. They can listen to your private communication whileattacking public Wi-Fi.

DENIAL-OF-SERVICE ATTACK

In this attack, hackers make your network and website busy by sending fake and harmful traffic. This fake traffic prevents actual users to do their job as the system becomes unusable and very slow.

SQL INJECTION

Cyber attackers insert harmful code in the database through the SQL query statement. In this way, they get the access to the database and harm the personal information.

HOW TO GET RID OF THESE CYBERTHREATS

Follow these guidelines to remain safe and keep your data protected from malware attacks:

• Update your applications and software
• Use good anti-virus tools
• Do not visit unnecessary links
• Always log out before leaving your workplace
• Use a strong password with special characters
• Do not open unnecessary emails
• Keep your Wi-Fi protected through password
• Use dedicated internet connection

CONSEQUENCES IF WE DON’T FOLLOW CYBERSECURITY BEST PPRACTISES

A successful cyberattack can cause severe damage to the organization. Following are the worst consequences if we don’t follow cybersecurity best practices:

• Reputational loss
• Financial loss
• Loss of customers
• Loss of sales
• Reduction in profits
• Theft of corporate and enterprise information
• Loss of sensitive information such as banking credentials, usernames or passwords
• Disruption of trading
• Loss of contract or deal
• Sensitive data or information could be modified or stolen.