Pie Lesson 5 (Overview Edit) PDF

VULNERABILITIES, THREATS AND ATTACKS  Learning Outcomes Vulnerabilities – Definition – Types Threats – Definition – Types – Actors Attacks – Definition – Techniques – Stages  Recap Definitions: Computer Security: Measures...

VULNERABILITIES, THREATS AND ATTACKS  Learning Outcomes Vulnerabilities – Definition – Types Threats – Definition – Types – Actors Attacks – Definition – Techniques – Stages  Recap Definitions: Computer Security: Measures and practices designed to protect computer systems and networks from threats, attacks, and unauthorized access. Computer Reliability: The ability of a computer system to consistently perform its required functions without failure over a specified period. Recap  INTRODUCTION Vulnerability: A weakness in a system that can be exploited by threats to gain unauthorized access or cause harm. Threat: Any potential danger that can exploit a vulnerability, leading to the compromise of information security.  INTRODUCTION Attack: An intentional act aimed at exploiting a vulnerability to damage or disrupt a system. Importance: Understanding vulnerabilities, threats, and attacks is crucial for developing effective security measures to protect information systems and data.  VULNERABILITIES Types of Vulnerabilities Software Vulnerabilities: Bugs and Flaws: Coding errors that can be exploited (e.g., buffer overflows). Outdated Software: Failure to update software can expose systems to known exploits.  VULNERABILITIES Hardware Vulnerabilities: Firmware Bugs: Flaws in the firmware that can be exploited to gain control over devices. Physical Security Weaknesses: Lack of physical protection can lead to hardware tampering.  VULNERABILITIES Network Vulnerabilities: Weak Encryption: Use of outdated or weak encryption protocols can expose data. Open Ports: Unsecured open ports can provide entry points for attackers. Human Vulnerabilities: Social Engineering: Manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information. Insider Threats: Employees or contractors misusing access to systems for malicious purposes  THREATS Types of Threats Malicious Software (Malware): Viruses: Self-replicating programs that attach to files. Worms: Self-replicating programs that spread across networks. Trojans: Malicious software disguised as legitimate applications. Ransomware: Encrypts data and demands payment for decryption.  THREATS Network Threats: Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks: Overloading a system with traffic to make it unavailable. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks: Intercepting communication between two parties to eavesdrop or alter messages.  THREATS Social Engineering Threats: Phishing: Deceptive emails that trick users into providing sensitive information. Pretexting: Creating a fabricated scenario to obtain confidential data.  THREATS Threat Actors Hackers: Black Hat Hackers: Individuals who exploit vulnerabilities for malicious purposes. White Hat Hackers: Ethical hackers who identify and report vulnerabilities to improve security. Criminal Organizations: Structured groups that engage in cybercrime for financial gain. State-Sponsored Actors: Government entities conducting cyber espionage or sabotage.  ATTACKS Common Attack Techniques Exploitation of Vulnerabilities: Attackers leverage known vulnerabilities in software or systems to gain unauthorized access or disrupt services. Phishing Attacks: Using deceptive emails or messages to trick users into revealing credentials or downloading malware.  ATTACKS SQL Injection: Injecting malicious SQL queries into input fields to manipulate databases and access sensitive information. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS): Injecting malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users, allowing attackers to steal session cookies or credentials.  ATTACKS Stages of an Attack Reconnaissance: Gathering information about the target (e.g., scanning for open ports). Scanning: Actively probing systems to identify vulnerabilities. Gaining Access: Exploiting vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access. Maintaining Access: Installing backdoors or other persistent methods to retain access. Covering Tracks: Erasing evidence of the attack to avoid detection  ATTACKS Consequences of Attacks Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to sensitive data can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and reputational damage. Financial Loss: Direct costs of recovery, legal fees, and fines, along with indirect costs like loss of customer trust. Operational Disruption: Downtime and service interruptions can affect business operations and customer satisfaction.  MITIGATION STRATEGIES 1. Vulnerability Management Regular Software Updates: Keeping systems and software updated to patch known vulnerabilities. Vulnerability Scanning: Conducting regular scans to identify and remediate vulnerabilities.  MITIGATION STRATEGIES 2. Threat Detection and Response Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Monitoring network traffic for suspicious activity. Incident Response Plans: Developing and testing plans to respond effectively to security incidents.  MITIGATION STRATEGIES 3. User Education and Awareness Security Training: Providing training to employees about recognizing phishing attempts and safe online practices. Simulated Phishing Attacks: Testing employee awareness through controlled phishing simulations.  MITIGATION STRATEGIES 4. Access Control Measures Principle of Least Privilege: Granting users the minimum level of access necessary to perform their job functions. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adding an additional layer of security to user accounts.  CONCLUSION Summary: Understanding vulnerabilities, threats, and attacks is crucial for protecting information systems. Organizations must adopt comprehensive strategies to identify, assess, and mitigate risks to enhance their overall security posture.  CONCLUSION Future Considerations: As technology evolves, so do the methods and techniques used by attackers, necessitating continuous adaptation and vigilance in security practices.  Learning Outcomes (covered) Vulnerabilities – Definition – Types Threats – Definition – Types – Actors Attacks – Definition – Techniques – Stages Thank you!