Cybersecurity Essentials Quiz

Strong Passwords

• Strong passwords are difficult to crack or guess.
• Should include at least one capital letter.
• Should include at least one numerical value.
• Should include at least one other keyboard character (such as @, *, &).

Firewalls

• Act as a barrier between your device and the internet.
• Can be software or hardware-based.
• Monitor and filter information going in and out of your device.
• Allow users to approve or deny communication from external sources.
• Tasks:
  • Examine traffic between devices and public networks.
  • Block traffic that doesn't match specific criteria.
  • Log all incoming and outgoing traffic for future analysis.
  • Prevent access to harmful IP addresses.
  • Help protect against viruses and hackers.
  • Warn users if any software tries connecting to external data sources.

Antivirus Software

• Continuously monitors for virus attacks in the background.
• Common functions:
  • Checking software/files prior to execution.
  • Comparison with known virus database.
  • Heuristic checking for suspicious behavior.
  • Quarantine suspect files; allowing automatic removal or manual review.
• Requires regular updates due to constant discovery of new viruses.
• Weekly full system scans are recommended to detect dormant viruses.

Encryption

• Alters readable data (plaintext) into an unreadable format (ciphertext).
• Uses a mathematical process with an encryption algorithm and a key.
• The key and process are complex enough to make brute force attack extremely unlikely.
• Decryption reverses the process using the same key or a different decryption key.
• Offers no protection against file deletion.
• Safeguards data integrity and confidentiality.

Biometrics

• Uses the unique characteristics of human beings to enhance security.
• Examples include fingerprint scans, retina scans, face recognition, and voice recognition.

Hacking

• Unauthorized access to a system with the intent to cause harm.
• Types:
  • Malicious: Aims at stealing sensitive information, modifying files.
  • Ethical: Authorized testing, evaluating cyber security strength, legal, commissioned by organizations.

Malware

• Small programs that pose a threat to data integrity and security.
• Types:
  • Viruses: Self-replicate, delete or corrupt files, need active host programs.
  • Worms: Standalone viruses seeking other vulnerable computers via networks.
  • Logic Bombs: Embedded codes triggered under specific conditions.
  • Trojans: Harmful programs disguised as legitimate software.
  • Bots: Automated scripts vulnerable to unauthorized takeover and attacks.
  • Spyware: Monitors keystrokes, sends gathered information to a sender (keylogging).

Phishing

• Emails that look legitimate but contain links or attachments that lead to fake websites or trick users into revealing personal information.
• How to prevent:
  • Be vigilant for new scams.
  • Avoid clicking unconfirmed links and unknown file downloads.
  • Be cautious of offers that are too good to be true.
  • Utilize anti-phishing toolbars on web browsers for warnings.
  • Periodically examine digital accounts and modify passwords routinely.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• Requires two forms of authentication for account login.
• Uses username/password combo with a second authentication factor like a phone number, fingerprint, or security code.
• Often involves a one-time code (OTP) sent to a mobile device or email address.
• Confirms account ownership before granting access.

Internet Ethics

• Acknowledge and accept cultural differences online.
• Refuse to participate in online abuse and harassment.
• Keep spam to a minimum.
• Share content that is meaningful.
• Respect others' privacy.
• Be cautious about sharing personal information online.