What is cyber security? The Definition, Types, and Threats

Data has been transformed into an essential asset in this modern, digital era. Therefore, it is unsurprising that many organizations focus on data security. One way to protect data is with cyber security. However, what exactly is cyber security? Let’s dive deeper.

Definition of Cyber Security

Cybersecurity, also known as Cyber Security, is an effort to protect systems, networks, and applications from the threat of digital attacks.

Why is Cyber Security Important?

As more and more data is stored online, security risks also increase. Cyber-attacks not only cause financial losses but can also damage the reputation of an entity, whether individual or company.

Types of Cyber Security

In facing various threats in the cyber world, several types of cyber security can be implemented to protect various aspects of information technology. The following is a further explanation regarding the types of cyber security:

1.Network Security

Network security is an approach designed to protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of your data and network resources from existing threats. These practices include steps to prevent unauthorized access, misuse, modification, and destruction. Using antivirus and firewalls is an effective way to ensure the security of your network. By implementing proper network security, companies or individuals can reduce the risk of attacks and protect their assets from cyber threats.

2.Cloud Security 

Cloud security protects data stored in cloud services from threats like loss, leakage, or theft. With more and more companies relying on cloud-based solutions, cloud security has become a top priority. Cloud security aims to create a secure and controlled environment for data and applications operating in the cloud by implementing security controls such as authentication, encryption, and monitoring.

3.Application Security 

Application security refers to the steps taken during the application development phase to protect the application from threats that may cause data loss, corruption, or others. This includes application design, implementation, operations, and maintenance. By implementing proper application security, we can ensure that software applications function correctly and are secure from external and internal threats.

The importance of understanding these types of cybersecurity is to apply them appropriately according to our needs and operational environment. So we can get maximum protection from threats in the cyber world.

Types of Cyber Security Threats

1. Phishing

Phishing is an attempt to obtain sensitive information by impersonating a trusted entity. It is often done via emails, copying those from official institutions, such as banks or large corporations, that ask users to enter personal information or passwords.

2. Ransomware

Ransomware is malware that encrypts user data and demands a ransom (usually cryptocurrency) to decrypt the data again.

3. Malware

Malware is malicious software that can infect, destroy, or take over a computer system without the user’s knowledge.

4. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM)

In a Man-in-the-Middle attack, the attacker intrudes between two communicating parties. In doing so, they can alter communications or steal information.

5. Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)

DoS attacks aim to disrupt a service or network by flooding it with excessive traffic. Meanwhile, DDoS involves multiple systems flooding the target.

6. SQL Injection

In an SQL Injection attack, an attacker can execute arbitrary commands in a database via a vulnerable web application, which allows them to access, modify, and delete data.

7. Zero-Day Attack

A Zero-Day Attack is an attack that exploits a software weakness that is not yet known to the public and does not yet have a patch.

How to Recognize and Prevent Cyber Security Threats

Protecting your systems and data from cyber threats requires courage and vigilance. Here are some ways to recognize and prevent these threats:

1. Education and Awareness

Cybersecurity education and training for employees or members of an organization is an essential first step. Ensuring that everyone understands the risks and recognizes threats can reduce the risk of attacks.

2. Use a trusted antivirus and firewall

Good security software can detect and block malware and other attacks before they damage your system.

3. Software Update

Always keep your operating system, applications, and other software current. Patches and updates usually contain fixes for security flaws that have been discovered.

4. Data backup

Back up your data regularly, both on external storage and the cloud. This is especially important to protect yourself from ransomware attacks.

5. Use Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication adds layer of security by requiring two verification methods before allowing Access.

6. Restrict Access

Only give Access to your system to those who need it. Consider using minimal privileges and escalating privileges only when necessary.

7. Monitor Network Traffic

Network monitoring tools can help detect suspicious activity and give you an idea of what is happening on your network.

Conclusion

Today’s digital world is full of constantly changing and evolving threats. Therefore, we must always be vigilant and proactive in protecting our information and data. By recognizing existing threats and implementing good security practices, we can reduce risks and protect our digital assets.

For extra protection against cyber threats, consider using services from Vidia Cloud. Their professional team is ready to help you maintain your cyber security.