What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, programmes, and data from unauthorised access, attack, or damage. It encompasses a wide range of technologies, processes, and practices designed to create a secure digital environment.
The CIA Triad
The foundation of cybersecurity rests on three pillars, known as the CIA triad:
- Confidentiality: Ensuring that sensitive information is accessible only to those authorised to view it. This is achieved through encryption, access controls, and authentication mechanisms.
- Integrity: Maintaining the accuracy and completeness of data throughout its lifecycle. Hash functions, digital signatures, and version control help preserve integrity.
- Availability: Guaranteeing that systems and data are accessible when needed. Redundancy, backup systems, and disaster recovery plans support availability.
Common Threat Types
Malware
Malicious software designed to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorised access to systems. Types include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.
Phishing
Social engineering attacks that trick users into revealing sensitive information or downloading malware through deceptive emails, websites, or messages.
Man-in-the-Middle (MitM)
An attacker secretly intercepts communication between two parties to eavesdrop or modify the data being exchanged.
Denial of Service (DoS)
Overwhelming a system or network with traffic to make it unavailable to legitimate users.
Basic Protection Strategies
- Keep software updated: Regular updates patch known vulnerabilities
- Use strong passwords: Long, complex passwords or passphrases reduce brute-force risk
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password
- Back up data regularly: Maintain recent backups to recover from ransomware or data loss
- Train staff: Human error is a leading cause of security breaches
