Computer Security

Computer SecurityAruba Sohail9-F

What is Computer Security? The security of data can be defined as maintaining the privacy and integrity of data, together with protecting data against loss when failure of a storage device occurs, a computer is stolen or destroyed by fire or natural disaster, or data accidently or maliciously deleted.

Security is the state of being free from danger or threat. Computer Security is the protection of computing systems and the data that they store or access. It is applied to computers or computer networks and is also known ascybersecurityorIT security.

What are different threats to our computer and data?

Security ThreatsInterruption (availability)Loss of data and denial of service

Interception Related to secrecy of data.

Modification and Fabrication are violations of system integrity

7Threats from Web/NetworkClient SideWhat can the server do to the client which can pose threats to the computer?Fool itInstall or run unauthorized software, inspect/alter filesServer SideWhat can the client do to the server?Bring it down (denial of service)Gain access (break-in)NetworkIs anyone listening? (Sniffing)Is the information genuine? Are the parties genuine?

8 Unauthorized access Unauthorized access could also occur if a user attempts to access an area of a system they should not be accessing.Unauthorized access to a computer system entails approaching, trespassing within and retrieving data or otherwise intercepting and altering computer resources without consent. It broadly falls into the term 'computer hacking', because it attempts to bypass the security mechanisms of a system.These break-ins may cause damage or disruption to computer systems or networks.

HackingComputer hacking refers to finding out weaknesses in an established system and exploiting them. It involves combining the power of the internet and specialized programming skills to bypass sophisticated security systems. It comes in many forms, from the programming of malicious programs (called spyware and malware) to the breaking of sophisticated computer security systems.Computer VirusesComputer viruses are small software programs that are designed to spread from one computer to another and to interfere with computer operation.

11 Accidental disclosureAccidental disclosure through inappropriate procedures, such as leaving a computer screen at a reception desk visible to visitors or placing unshredded documents in a waste bin. Deliberate disclosure The computer could be deliberately disclosed through a malicious act.

Measures taken for the security of computerInstall a firewall and virus-checking on your computers.

Make sure that your operating system is set up to receive automatic updates.Protect your computerby downloading the latest patches or security updates,which should cover vulnerabilities.Encrypt any personal information held electronicallythat wouldcausedamage or distress if it were lost or stolen.

Take regular back-ups of the information onyour computersystem and keep them in a separate place so that if you lose your computers, you dont lose the information.Securely remove all personal information before disposing of old computers (by using technology or destroying the hard disk).Consider installing an anti-spyware tool. Spyware is the generic name given to programs that are designed to secretly monitor your activities on your computer. Spyware can be unwittingly installed within other file and program downloads, and their use is often malicious.They can capture passwords, banking credentials andcredit carddetails, then relay them back to fraudsters. Anti-spyware helps to monitor and protect your computer from spyware threats, and it is often free to use and update.

Dont share passwords.Be careful when using a group email address. Check who is in the group and make sure you really want to send your message to everyone.