What is cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity protects information and equipment in computer systems from theft or damage. Computer security is a general term that includes hardware and software related to computers, networks, data, personal privacy, and the internet of things. In this article, we will be going over common cyber threats and solutions for preventing them.

Common cyber threats:

Many common threats come with the use of technology. Some of the most common threats include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Phishing

Phishing is a scam tactic used to trick a user into clicking on a link to gain access to sensitive information that can be used for identity theft.

2. Spam

Spam is unsolicited messages sent via email from corporations or individuals in an attempt to sell you something in exchange for your personal information.

3. Malware

Malware is malicious software that exploits vulnerabilities within computer systems to gain administrative rights, log keystrokes, steal personal and confidential information and create new keyboard logins.

4. Denial-of-service

A denial-of-service attack occurs when an attacker attempts to flood a system with multiple requests for information or resources at a time, causing it to shut down so that all other users cannot access their systems.

Solutions for prevention:

1. Using Passwords

Passwords should have a minimum length of 12 characters and contain upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols.

2. Use a different password on each site you use

Never reuse passwords across services or websites. Use a different password for each service/website you utilize so that if one website is compromised, your account won’t be.

3. Use 2-factor authentication

Using 2-factor authentication will make logging into accounts much harder as only one password won’t be enough. This is also important if your password gets compromised; you can use this secondary authentication method to access your account and change it immediately.

4. Use a password manager

They are much more secure than having to remember them all on your own. They generate complex passwords unique to each website, encrypted, and synchronized across all devices.

5. Use an anti-malware program

They are programs that protect computer systems from malicious software known as malware. It watches for new or changes in files and keeps track of them, notifying you of any new threats.

Bottom Line

To keep your system secure from these threats, you must use strong passwords and 2-factor authentication, protect your devices with anti-malware software and be careful when using the internet. It’s also a good idea to keep multiple backups of your data stored in encrypted forms.