Introduction to Cyber Security

Introduction to Cyber Security and Information Systems Security

• Cyber security is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and data from digital attacks.
• It involves a broad spectrum of measures to defend information and technology assets.
• Key goals include data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

What is Cyber Security?

• Cyber security safeguards systems, networks, and data against digital attacks and unauthorized access.
• A wide array of measures are employed to protect information and technological resources.
• Main objectives are data confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility.

Cybersecurity: A Shared Responsibility

• Building robust cybersecurity measures is a collective responsibility.
• Even a single vulnerability can compromise the entire system.
• A collaborative and proactive approach is essential to combat cyber threats effectively.

You Are a Target

• Cybercriminals employ various tactics to gain access to valuable information.
• Usernames, passwords, emails, and virtual goods are attractive targets.
• Cybercriminals can hijack identities, infiltrate systems, or extort payment.

Shared Responsibility

• Cybersecurity protection requires a shared effort, not solely the responsibility of an individual IT person.
• Maintaining a highly secure system is difficult, even for organizations with dedicated resources.
• Cyber threats require collective vigilance and proactive measures.

Key Concepts in Cyber Security

• A threat is any potential danger that can exploit a vulnerability and compromise security.
• A vulnerability is a weakness in a system that hackers can exploit.
• Risk is the likelihood of a threat successfully exploiting a vulnerability.
• An attack is a malicious action taken by an adversary to compromise system security.
• Defense strategies and countermeasures protect against cyber threats.

Quick Training

• Avoid plugging unfamiliar USB drives into your computer, like randomly consuming unverified food.
• This practice, similar to eating unverified food, can have serious consequences (e.g., Stuxnet attack).

Preparing for Battle

• Cyber security teams should not be limited to IT personnel.
• A gap exists between confidence in cybersecurity and actual preparedness.
• Organizations should leverage external expertise and resources (e.g., NACO, MS-ISAC, SANS, DHS).
• Utilizing external resources can enhance the organization's security posture.

Preparing for Battle: SANS Training

• The State of Iowa offers free SANS "Securing the Human" training.
• This training program comprises multiple short videos.

Know When to Fight

• Resources such as time, money, and personnel are often limited.
• Organizations should prioritize resources and allocate them strategically.
• Organizations should focus efforts on the most vulnerable and critical assets.
• The Center for Internet Security's Cyber Hygiene Campaign assists in identifying cybersecurity issues.
• Implement password security, manage administrative access, ensure devices are updated promptly.

What to Fight

• Cybercriminals target valuable data and systems.
• Data theft is a frequent goal, but data encryption (e.g., ransomware) is also a threat.

Social Engineering Attacks

• Social engineering attacks exploit human vulnerabilities to gain access to sensitive information or systems.
• Baiting, phishing, pretexting, quid pro quo, and tailgating are some examples.

Handling Inferior Forces

• Cybersecurity defenses are not 100% effective.
• Cybercriminals only need one successful attack.
• Collaboration and improved security awareness are vital for protection.

Providing Capacity and Don't Interfere

• Budget and allocate resources to cybersecurity initiatives.
• Policies and procedures must reflect cybersecurity best practices.
• Avoid granting excessive privileges to vendors.
• Demand and expect higher security standards from vendors.

The People and Process Gap

• Effective cybersecurity requires well-trained personnel.
• Processes, management systems, governance frameworks, best practices, and audits play critical roles.
• Technology must be matched with competent people and sound processes.

Why Cyber Security Matters

• Increased reliance on digital technologies makes cybersecurity more crucial.
• Cyber threats such as malware, ransomware, and phishing are commonplace.
• Data breaches can result in financial losses, reputational harm, and legal consequences.
• Cybersecurity protects crucial infrastructure (e.g., power grids, water supply, healthcare).

Current Trending Issues in Cyber Security

• Remote work security requires addressing vulnerabilities of remote environments.
• Cloud security protects applications and data in the "cloud" environment.
• IoT security secures interconnected devices.
• AI and machine learning improve threat detection and response.
• Zero-day exploits are attacks leveraging software vulnerabilities unknown to vendors.

Remote Work Security

• Increased remote work due to global events creates new security challenges.
• Secure connections, access control, and data protection are essential.
• VPNs, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and employee training are solutions.

Cloud Security

• Data and applications hosted on remote servers require specific security considerations.
• Data encryption, access control, and compliance are fundamental to cloud security.
• Leading cloud service providers (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) dedicate resources to security.

IoT Security

• Internet of Things (IoT) devices are increasingly pervasive in daily life.
• IoT systems face vulnerabilities due to limited resources and potential for attacks.
• Regular updates, network segmentation, and authentication contribute to IoT security solutions.

AI and Machine Learning in Cybersecurity

• AI and machine learning improve threat detection and response.
• Predictive analytics are employed to identify patterns and anomalies.
• Incident responses are automated to address threats swiftly.
• Adversarial AI poses evolving threats and countermeasures.

Zero-Day Exploits

• Zero-day vulnerabilities are unknown to software vendors.
• Zero-day exploits target these vulnerabilities.
• Vulnerability disclosure and patch management are crucial.
• Proactive security postures are important to combat emerging cyber threats.

Conclusion

• Cybersecurity is vital in the modern digital era.
• Stay informed about evolving cybersecurity threats and best practices.
• Protect organizations' data and systems by implementing comprehensive safeguards.