IT Security Terms Everybody Should Know:

Authentication

The process of confirming the identity of a user. If the username and password are correct, then the authentication process has been successful. The information provided by the user does not match what is stored in an internal database or third-party service, then authentication will fail.

Credential

A credential is a person that is allowed to connect to a computer system. The term applies equally well to data that can be used to establish authenticity and has been used as an adjective since 1940. In computer security, there are three ways credentials can be compromised: theft, compromise, or sharing.

Malware

Is software that is created for the purpose of accessing a network or destroying the data stored on that network is called malware. Malware can be installed on the network or individual computers. It can spread from computer to computer, or it can be sent as an email attachment. Malware includes:

Viruses

Malicious software that copies itself and spreads to other computers. A virus will try to disable anti-virus software and infect files on a computer, including programs, system files, and data files.

Worms

Malicious software that replicates itself but does not infect other computers.

Ransomware

This is a subset or subcategory of malware. There has been a rise in the popularity of this type of malware, which is designed to encrypt or lock your data. The data is held hostage or for ransom until you pay to have it released or UNENCRYPTED.

Social Engineering

Did you know that most cybersecurity attacks are a form of social engineering? But what is Social Engineering? It is the act of tricking someone into giving up guarded or valuable information like passwords or other data the attacker than uses to access your data.

Phishing

This is the act of creating emails, websites, even applications designed to impersonate trusted businesses or websites. These imposters try to get you to provide them with sensitive data they can then exploit.

Antivirus

This is a critical component of computer security. Antivirus software helps protect and scan computer hardware for malicious software called viruses that can infect a computer network.

Patch

Software developers find or discover issues, bugs, or vulnerabilities in their software. They release updates or patches to resolve issues or tighten security.

Zero-day Attack

When cybercriminals use new or undiscovered methods like a new form of malware. To exploit a-holes or vulnerabilities in software before the issue is discovered or can be addressed. This type of cyberattack is referred to as a Zero-day attack.

Intrusion Protection System or “IPS”

When protecting from malware, viruses, and other security issues. Specialized devices like firewalls or other hardware called IPS. The IPS devices look at your entire network for suspicious or malicious activity and stop it from taking advantage of potential vulnerabilities.

Consent

An agreement to participate in a given study or research project that has been explained in language understandable to the potential participant.

Data Integrity

The degree to which data is accurate, consistent, complete, and current. Data integrity ensures that records are not accidentally deleted.

Remember, Cyber Security is a complex issue, and knowing you have a trusted partner like Slick Cyber Systems to help guide you in designing the best security for your network is important. Give us a call today to discuss your cybersecurity needs (570) 215-8888.