Cyber security is also called as information technology security to protect electronic devices against different malicious attacks done by the attacker or an unauthorized person. It got divided into few categories depends on various contexts from business to mobile industry.

Cybersecurity is a critical aspect of our digital world, encompassing measures to protect networks, systems, and data from unauthorized access, exploitation, and attacks. In today’s interconnected environment, where everything from personal information to financial transactions occurs online, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated.

One of the fundamental pillars of cybersecurity is encryption. Encryption involves encoding information in such a way that only authorized parties can access it. It plays a vital role in safeguarding sensitive data during transmission and storage, ensuring that even if intercepted, the data remains incomprehensible to unauthorized individuals.

Another essential component of cybersecurity is access control. This involves implementing mechanisms to authenticate users and regulate their access to resources based on predefined privileges. Strong authentication methods such as biometrics, multi-factor authentication, and digital certificates help ensure that only authorized individuals can access sensitive systems and data.

Vulnerability management is also crucial in cybersecurity. As technology evolves, new vulnerabilities emerge, creating potential entry points for cyber attackers. Regularly scanning systems for vulnerabilities, patching software, and implementing security updates are essential practices to mitigate these risks and strengthen the overall security posture.

In addition to proactive measures, cybersecurity also involves effective incident response strategies. Despite robust preventive measures, security incidents can still occur. Therefore, organizations must have well-defined incident response plans in place to detect, contain, and mitigate the impact of security breaches promptly. This includes processes for identifying the nature and scope of the incident, notifying stakeholders, and restoring systems and data to a secure state.

Furthermore, the field of cybersecurity is constantly evolving as cyber threats become more sophisticated and pervasive. Threat intelligence plays a crucial role in staying ahead of cyber attackers by providing insights into emerging threats, attack vectors, and adversary tactics. By leveraging threat intelligence feeds, security professionals can better anticipate and respond to cyber threats in real-time.

Moreover, cybersecurity is not limited to protecting traditional computing devices. With the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, securing interconnected networks of smart devices has become increasingly important. These devices, ranging from smart home appliances to industrial control systems, introduce new security challenges due to their sheer number and diverse functionalities. Implementing security measures such as device authentication, encryption, and network segmentation is essential to mitigate the risks associated with IoT deployments.

Another emerging trend in cybersecurity is the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies. These technologies offer capabilities for threat detection, anomaly detection, and predictive analytics, enabling organizations to enhance their security posture and respond more effectively to evolving threats. However, it’s important to note that cyber attackers are also leveraging AI and ML techniques to orchestrate more sophisticated attacks, highlighting the need for ongoing innovation in defensive strategies.

 [1]

1. Network security
2. Application security
3. Information security
4. Operational security
5. Disaster recovery and business continuity
6. End-user education

According to RiskBased Security report, in first 9 months of 2019 there has been a data breach of 7.9 billion records which was almost double to previous year records. Medical services, public entitles and retailers are the most effected ones by this security breach. Cyber criminals collect financial and medical data, but most of the businesses targeted for customer data. Because of continuous rise in cyber threat, investing on cybersecurity solutions naturally increases. By 2026 spending prediction will reaches $260 billion worldwide.

Cybercrime, cyber-attack and cyberterrorism are the three-fold threats aims by cyber -security. [2]

Here are some common types of cybersecurity threats.

• Malware: which is also called as malicious software or code that harms the computer system. The motive behind this attack making money off you, get your work done or doing a political statement. Malware steals your data, encrypts, delete your data or hijack core functions of your computer. It doesn’t affect your physical computer hardware.

 [3]

Adware, spyware, virus and trojans are some examples.

Some telltale signs of malware that you have on your system.

1. System slows down (OS speed reduced)
2. Popup by the ads
3. System gets crashed frequently
4. Loss of space on your hard disk
5. You won’t get access to some of your files [4]
6. Man-in-the-middle: The attacker stays in the middle of system and internet connection. Starts exploiting the web application-based protocols to steals the data, even MITM can spoof the entire communication system. [5]

 [6]

• Phishing: Phishing is an attack uses email, SMS, phone to steal user’s sensitive information such as passwords or data or download and install software to track their information.

Phishing attack that targets specific organization or individual person called Spear phishing.

Targeting senior or C-level executive employee in regards of stealing money is called whaling.

Vishing is voice phishing attack make phone calls and voice message from a reputable organization and gathering people details. [7]

• Identity based attacks: Because of users’ typical behavior, it is hard to differentiate who is hacker or user in compromised identity attacks. And most of attacks takes 250 days to reveal just to identify.

Practices to prevent cyber stacks:

1. Regular Data backup s
2. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) logons
3. Create the awareness in employees and educate them
4. Recommend strong passwords and change frequently
5. Password managers [8]
6. Encryption software

In conclusion, cybersecurity is a multifaceted discipline that encompasses various technologies, processes, and practices aimed at protecting digital assets from cyber threats. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, organizations can safeguard their systems, data, and reputation in an increasingly interconnected and volatile digital landscape.

References

[1]	“wikipedia,” [Online]. Available: https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=410c7302d0671213JmltdHM9MTcxMTMyNDgwMCZpZ3VpZD0wYTk3NzI3NC05MzU5LTZmMTEtMmE0NS02NjM4OTI0OTZlNDYmaW5zaWQ9NTg3Mw&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=3&fclid=0a977274-9359-6f11-2a45-663892496e46&u=a1L2ltYWdlcy9zZWFyY2g_cT1jb21wdXRlcitzZWN1cml0eSZj. [Accessed 26 03 2024].
[2]	“Kaspersky Lab,” [Online]. Available: https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/definitions/what-is-cyber-security. [Accessed 26 03 2024].
[3]	“itbriefcase.net,” [Online]. Available: https://www.itbriefcase.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/lalala2.jpeg. [Accessed 26 03 2024].
[4]	“malwarebytes,” [Online]. Available: https://www.malwarebytes.com/malware. [Accessed 26 03 2024].
[5]	“fortinet,” [Online]. Available: https://www.fortinet.com/resources/cyberglossary/what-is-cybersecurity. [Accessed 26 03 2024].
[6]	“ichi.pro,” [Online]. Available: https://ichi.pro/assets/images/max/724/1*2GZVWQjLvyOaumjAqcWipQ.jpeg. [Accessed 26 03 2024].
[7]	“CROWDSTRIKE,” [Online]. Available: https://www.crowdstrike.com/cybersecurity-101/cyberattacks/most-common-types-of-cyberattacks/. [Accessed 26 03 2024].
[8]	K. A. Leeron Hoory, “Forbes Advisor,” [Online]. Available: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/what-is-cyber-attack/. [Accessed 26 03 2024].