Professional Ethics in Information Technology

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Questions and Answers

Why is the security of information technology considered of utmost importance?

To increase the complexity of the computing environment

To reduce the number of entry points for potential security breaches

To prevent unauthorized access to confidential business data (correct)

To ensure the efficient operation of cloud computing

What is a major reason for the prevalence of computer incidents?

Reduced user expectations for computer performance

Limited access to data storage and computing power

Increasing complexity of computing environments (correct)

Lack of cloud computing resources

What is cloud computing?

The provision of data centers only to individual users

The distribution of computing power to specific users based on their needs

The management of computer system resources directly by the user

The on-demand availability of computer system resources without direct active management by the user (correct)

Why are computer help desks under intense pressure to respond quickly to users' questions?

To increase user productivity related to time constraints (A) Signup and view all the answers

How does increasing complexity contribute to the vulnerability of computing environments?

It expands the number of entry points for potential security breaches (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why is safeguarding confidential business data and private customer and employee data important?

To protect against malicious acts of theft or disruption (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a zero-day exploit?

A cyber attack that occurs on the same day a weakness is discovered in software and is exploited before a fix becomes available (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a virus?

To enable payload delivery (B) Signup and view all the answers

What can viruses be disguised as?

Files and documents (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of a zero-day exploit?

It occurs before a fix becomes available from its creator (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does a rootkit refer to in the context of computer security?

A set of tools and technologies used to gain unauthorized access to a computer system (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of phishing?

To deceive individuals into providing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of commercial software?

Designed and developed for licensing or sale to end users or serving a commercial purpose (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does a virus deliver as part of transmitted data?

"Payload", which is the actual intended message carried by transmitted data (C) Signup and view all the answers

What are types of attacks that can target users?

All of the above (D) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Importance of IT Security

Information technology security is crucial to protect sensitive data, maintain privacy, and ensure the integrity of systems.
Breaches can lead to financial loss, reputational damage, and legal consequences for organizations.

Prevalence of Computer Incidents

A major factor for the high occurrence of computer incidents is increased connectivity and reliance on digital systems, making them attractive targets for attackers.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing involves delivering computing services (e.g., storage, processing) over the internet, offering flexibility, scalability, and reduced infrastructure costs.

Pressure on Help Desks

Computer help desks face intense pressure to provide rapid responses due to user dependency on technology for business operations and productivity.

Complexity and Vulnerability

Rising complexity in computing environments leads to greater vulnerabilities, as intricate systems can introduce more points of failure and potential attack vectors.

Importance of Safeguarding Data

Protecting confidential business and customer data is vital to maintain trust, uphold compliance with regulations, and prevent data breaches.

Zero-Day Exploit

A zero-day exploit refers to a cyber vulnerability that attackers can exploit before developers release a fix, leaving systems unprotected.

Purpose of a Virus

Viruses are malicious software designed to replicate and spread to damage systems, corrupt data, or steal information.

Virus Disguises

Viruses can be disguised as legitimate software, file attachments, or downloads to deceive users into activating them.

Characteristics of Zero-Day Exploit

The defining feature of a zero-day exploit is its ability to take advantage of a vulnerability that has not yet been identified or patched by the software developer.

Rootkit Definition

A rootkit is a type of malicious software that gives attackers remote access and control over a computer, often allowing them to hide their presence.

Purpose of Phishing

Phishing aims to deceive individuals into providing personal information, such as passwords and financial details, through fake communications that appear legitimate.

Characteristics of Commercial Software

Commercial software is typically developed for profit, with features including regular updates, customer support, and licensing fees.

Virus Delivery

A virus often delivers additional malicious payloads or commands as part of the data it transmits, leading to further exploitation or harm.

Types of User Target Attacks

Users can face various types of attacks, including phishing, malware infections, ransomware, and denial-of-service attacks that disrupt service availability.

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Description

This quiz covers the importance of security in information technology, safeguarding confidential business and personal data, and protecting against malicious acts. It is based on lecture 8 and the textbook 'Ethics in Information Technology' by George W. Reynolds.