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What is Cyber Security?

Cyber security refers to the protection of internet-connected systems including hardware, software, and data, from cyber attacks. Similarly, it encompasses a wide range of technologies, practices, and also policies that are used to protect networks, systems, and data from unauthorized access. From its use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.

Did you know about the main goals of cyber security ?

The main goals of cyber security are to protect the confidentiality, integrity, availability of information and systems. Confidentiality refers to protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access or disclosure. Integrity refers to ensuring that information and systems are accurate and complete. That unauthorized changes are not made to them. Availability refers to ensuring that systems and also services are accessible and usable when needed.

Types of Cyber Security

Cybersecurity encompasses a wide range of technologies, processes, and also practices. That are used to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber attacks.

network security
Network Security

The process of protecting computer networks from unauthorized access, misuse, and disruption. This includes the use of firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and VPNs.

Endpoint Security

The process of protecting individual devices, such as computers, laptops, and mobile devices, from cyber attacks. This can include antivirus software, firewalls, and encryption.

cloud security
Cloud Security

The process of securing data and applications that are stored or accessed via cloud-based services. This can include encryption, access controls, threat detection and response.

application security
Application Security

The process of securing software applications from vulnerabilities and attacks. This can also include code review, vulnerability scanning, and secure coding practices.

identity management
Identity & Access Management (IAM)

The process of managing and protecting an organization's digital identities and access to resources. This can also include authentication, authorization, and access control.

data security
Data Security

The process of protecting data from unauthorized access, modification, or destruction. This can include encryption, backups, and access controls.

incident report
Incident Responses

The process of identifying, responding to, and also recovering from cyber security breaches. This can include incident management, incident response planning, and incident response teams.

Risk Management

The process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating cybersecurity risks. Similarly, this can include risk assessments, penetration testing, and vulnerability management.

compliance
Compliances

The process of ensuring that an organization is in compliance with relevant regulations and standards. For example HIPAA, PCI-DSS, SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2, ISO27001 and GDPR.

Importance of Cyber Security

Cyber security is increasingly important in today’s digital age, as the reliance on technology and also the internet continues to grow. The increasing number of cyber attacks and the potential consequences of a security breach make it essential for organizations to prioritize cyber security.

Protection of sensitive data:

Organizations collect and store large amounts of sensitive information about their customers, employees, and operations. As has been noted, cyber security measures help to protect this data from unauthorized access, theft, and destruction, which can prevent data breaches and loss of sensitive information.

Compliance in cyber security :

Many organizations are subject to strict regulations and laws that require them to protect certain types of information, such as personal data and financial information. As I have said, cyber security measures help organizations to comply with these regulations and avoid costly fines and penalties.

Business continuity:

A successful cyber attack can disrupt an organization's operations and cause significant downtime. Cyber security measures help to minimize the impact of an attack and also ensure that the business can continue to operate.

Reputation:

A data breach or cyber attack can result in negative publicity and damage an organization's reputation. By implementing effective cyber security measures, organizations can protect their reputation and maintain customer trust.

Competitive advantage:

Organizations with strong cyber security practices are better positioned to attract and retain customers, as well as attract and retain employees. As I have said, this can give them a competitive edge in the market.

Different types of cyber threats that organizations face:

Organizations implement a variety of security controls, such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) solutions. Additionally, organizations also implement security policies and procedures. Such as incident response plans, security awareness training, and also security audits, to help protect against cyber attacks.

Malware in cyber security
Malware

A type of software specifically designed to harm computer systems or networks. This can also include viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and ransomware.

phishing in cyber security
Phishing

Attempts to trick individuals into providing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial information, through fraudulent email or website.

cyber security DDOS
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS):

A type of cyber attack that involves overwhelming a website or network with traffic in order to disrupt service.

social engineering in cyber security
Social Engineering

Techniques used to manipulate individuals into divulging sensitive information or performing an action. This can include phishing, baiting, pretexting and quid pro quo.

insider threat in cyber security
Insider Treats

A type of cyber attack that involves an employee, contractor or vendor with authorized access to an organization's network or systems, using that access to commit unauthorized activities.

persistent threat cyber security
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

A type of cyber attack that involves a prolonged and targeted attempt to gain access to sensitive information. This is often used by nation-state actors and criminal organizations.

cyber security IOT
IoT Threats

Cyber threats that target Internet of things(IoT) devices such as smart devices, security cameras, and also other connected devices.

cryptojacking in cyber security
Cryptojacking

A type of cyber attack that involves using a victim's computer resources to mine cryptocurrency without the victim's knowledge or consent.

These are just a few examples of the many different types of cyber threats that organizations may face. It’s important to be aware of these threats and take steps to protect against them. Such as implementing security controls, conducting regular security assessments and also educating employees on how to identify and respond to cyber threats.

How to Manage Cyber Security:

Managing cybersecurity involves implementing and maintaining a comprehensive set of security controls and also practices.  Therefore, to protect an organization’s systems, networks, and also data from cyber attacks.

It typically involves the following steps:

Risk Assessment :

Identify and assess the cybersecurity risks facing the organization. This also includes identifying assets and vulnerabilities, and assessing the likelihood and impact of potential threats.

Policy development :

Develop and implement policies and procedures that govern the organization's cybersecurity practices. This includes guidelines for access control, incident response, and data security.

Implementation :

Implement technical and non-technical controls to mitigate identified risks. Similarly, this includes installing software and hardware, configuring network devices and security solutions, and also providing security awareness training to employees.

Monitoring :

Regularly monitor the organization's systems and networks for signs of unauthorized access or other security breaches. Hence, it includes monitoring logs, using intrusion detection systems, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments.

Incident Response :

Establish an incident response plan and incident response team to respond quickly and also effectively to a cybersecurity incident.

Continuous Improvements :

Continuously review and improve the cybersecurity posture of the organization. To illustrate, it has regularly reviewing policies, procedures and technologies, and updating them as needed to address new threats and vulnerabilities.

Compliance:

Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards, such as HIPAA, PCI-DSS, ISO27001, SOC 2 Type 1 & 2 and GDPR.

Managing cybersecurity is a continuous process that requires regular monitoring, review, and updates to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. It’s important for organizations to have a dedicated team or individual responsible for cybersecurity management. Hence to ensure that all employees are aware of their role in protecting the organization from cyber threats.