Cybersecurity involves protecting computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks. It's also known as information technology security or electronic information security. The field is categorized into several common branches:
The importance of cybersecurity continues to grow, driven by the increasing reliance on computer systems, the Internet, wireless network standards like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and the growth of "smart" devices, including smartphones, televisions, and the various devices that constitute the Internet of Things (IoT).
Threats: Cyber threats can come from any level and can involve theft of financial information, governmental information, or the disruption of national infrastructure. Furthermore, sophisticated cyber criminals and nation-states exploit vulnerabilities to steal information and money. They can also aim to disrupt, destroy, or threaten the delivery of essential services.
Techniques: A variety of methods are used in cybersecurity. Encryption is one, which involves encoding information in such a way that only authorized parties can access it. Antivirus and anti-malware solutions are continually evolving to respond to the myriad of threats. Behavioral analytics are used to detect patterns that could suggest a threat. AI and machine learning can replicate or predict behavior and identify potential breaches before they occur.
Challenges: The field of cybersecurity is challenging due to the volume and sophistication of attackers and the significant amount of data that is handled. Practitioners need to stay ahead of threats by updating their practices frequently, adding new defense mechanisms, and ensuring that all elements of cybersecurity are maintained.
Given the scope of cybersecurity, developing a robust approach involves investment in technology, processes, and people. It is not only about protecting data but also about ensuring the continuity and resilience of business operations.
Thursday, July 25, 2024 | Graham Mulhern
The July 2024 CrowdStrike-Microsoft incident led to a global IT outage, impacting numerous sectors, including airlines, healthcare, and the financial industry. Microsoft reverted to type and blamed everyone else. Here is our overview of the Incident
Tuesday, June 18, 2024 | Graham Mulhern
Organised crime, decent proper criminals have made cybercriminals an offer they can't refuse, they want in on the act and they want a big slice of the action. They'll provide local muscle, a real threat on the ground, threatening families and kids directly.
Thursday, April 18, 2024 | Graham Mulhern
Make sure your organisation's emails are received as sent, not changed by criminals, or interfered with in any way. So your customers, suppliers, partners and employees never get an email you did not send. Defending your email integrity, and sender reputation every day
Thursday, March 7, 2024 | Graham Mulhern
An informative article warning about scanning QR codes on mobile phones. The risks of malicious software, financial fraud, phishing attacks, personal data tracking, etc. We stress the need to exercise caution while scanning QR codes and keeping mobile antivirus software up to date.
Tuesday, February 27, 2024 | Graham Mulhern
Passwords are dead or are they?. Most people have 300 + apps passwords and there are other technologies but passwords are going to be here a while longer.
Sunday, November 26, 2023 | Graham Mulhern
The decision to pay a ransomware demand is a huge one. Is it safe? Will we get access to our systems again if we pay? Should I negotiate? Will they come again for more money? Will we survive financially? What are the other unknown risks?
Wednesday, September 27, 2023 | Graham Mulhern
CyberSecurity Awareness Training builds the best cyber security you can get, a human firewall. People who know what they doing, what links not to click, staff who don't open suspicious emails, and staff who are sharp to the possibility of phishing, and malware. Staff who won't harm the organisation.
Friday, June 30, 2023 | Graham Mulhern
I used to be insecure until I saw my password. No more cats' names, Birthdays are great but are not passwords. CR7 is an ageing footballer, not a password. Iloveyou, maybe but not a password.
Friday, June 16, 2023 | Graham Mulhern
You can be much smarter than Basil Fawlty and still get hit by some incredibly smart cyber-scams. Phishing, Smishing, Vishing, and Ransomware targeting you all day and night on every channel. Email, Texts, Phone calls. Arm yourself & your staff. Fight back with awareness training.
Tuesday, May 16, 2023 | Graham Mulhern
Let's face it, for most people, a job is just a job, do the work, get paid, repeat. They have other things to do, to worry about, The employer's IT system is not one of them. So for 95% who don't care as you do, awareness training might be the only way.