By DeVry University
January 10, 2024
5 min read
Cyber Security
January 10, 2024
5 min read
Now that computers are one of the most important tools in our workplaces, cyber security professionals play a critical role in protecting important information and maintaining productivity. But what is cyber security?
Cyber security is the defense of computers, data, networks, systems and information from attackers. The field of cyber security has several specializations, each focusing on a distinct area of digital defense, such as network security, information security and disaster recovery. All of these areas serve an essential function in the modern workplace.
So what qualifies as a cyber-attack and what does it take to work in this field? In this article, we’ll answer these questions and others like:
Cyber security professionals are integral to an organization’s safety. They take preventative measures to protect confidential information and prevent costly data breaches. This responsibility means they have a more varied and expansive role than many people may realize. Their work falls largely into two categories: prevention and security, and disaster recovery and continuity planning.
SQL (Structured Query Language) injections take control of a network by inserting a line of malicious code into a data-driven application. They are often used to break into secure databases and servers in an attempt to retrieve sensitive information.
A cybercriminal may use any of these methods to commit a cyberattack, cybercrime or cyberterrorism. The main elements that determine which category a threat fits into are the scale of the attack and the goal. For instance, cyberterrorism may be committed against a government or major company, while a cybercrime can be committed against an individual.
Cyberattacks like the ones described above form a matrix of threats to our personal and financial data. They remind us how so many aspects of our lives are networked. When those networks have vulnerabilities, cybercriminals will find ways to exploit them for financial gain.
On a personal level, cyber security means keeping our personal information safe from identity thieves and scammers. On a large scale, cyber security means protecting the retail, banking and healthcare data systems we’ve come to rely on to shop, invest, travel, maintain our health, pay our bills and do myriad other things with convenience and efficiency. At this level, a single data breach could jeopardize the personal and financial information of millions of individuals or be the precursor to a ransomware attack that could paralyze an entire organization.
It’s more important than ever to stay ahead of cyber security threats. According to the antivirus software maker Norton, more than half of all consumers have experienced a cybercrime at some point, with around 1 in 3 falling victim in 2021 alone.
Protection against cybercrime begins with protecting your devices. Keeping your devices up to date by turning on automatic updates is a good way to be sure you have the latest software updates and patches that enhance security and plug vulnerabilities in operating systems. Install virus protection software and never leave a device unattended and unlocked in a public place.
Viruses and malicious software, also known as malware, are often spread through links. Be extra cautious about clicking on links in email messages, even if the message appears to be from someone you know. Cybercriminals are incredibly good at disguising malicious emails to make them look legitimate. Unless you’re absolutely sure the message and the link it contains are both legitimate, don’t click on anything.
If you want to venture further into the world of cyber security, or have thought about cyber security as a career, you can pursue a credential or degree in cyber security. For instance, our cyber security bachelor's degree can help you develop the skills needed to protect and defend data against cyberattacks.
Filter Blog Post Category