Cybersecurity indeed has evolved into a matter of great concern not only among the people engaged in Information Technology (IT), but also for individuals, small and large businesses as well as organizations because of threats that traverse international borders becoming more and more sophisticated. In light of these trends, they are ever paramount in protecting sensitive electronic information and sustain a secure online profile. Jazz Cyber Shield helps foster network security and cyber defense insights for the benefit of our world. Thus, in this blog, we will examine a set of ten cybersecurity words that everyone should know.
1. Phishing
Phishing is a cyber attack technique in which an attacker impersonates an entity through emails, messages, or websites to trick individuals into disclosing sensitive information, such as passwords or financial details. Spotting phishing attempts can prevent identity theft and financial fraud.
2. Malware
Also known as a malicious software, malware refers to software programs that are created to enter, destruct, or breach unapproved access to computers. Some varieties of malware used are viruses, worms, ransomware, spyware, and trojans.
3. Ransomware
Ransomware is malware that encrypts the files of a victim and keeps them out of reach. A ransom is demanded from the victim in cryptocurrency or some other form of payment in exchange for the decryption key. An individual or a company ought to be certain that there is data backup in case of being attacked by such a ransomware.
4. Firewall
A firewall is a kind of network security device or software that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing traffic according to some predetermined security rules. The firewall works as a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks like the Internet.
5. Zero-Day Exploit
Zero day exploit is referred to as a cyber attack that takes an advantage of an unknown security loophole in any software or hardware until the vendor finds a patch for it. This poses a threatening future, since it gives yet another open door for attackers to abuse systems before defenses can be put into place.
6. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
The multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security mechanism requiring that end-users must supply two or more forms of verification to gain access to an account or system. Common forms include: Something you know (password), something you have (security token), and something you are (biometrics).
7. Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attack
A DoS attack floods the network, server, or website with bogus traffic, rendering it inaccessible for legitimate users. The Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack, a more-sophisticated and advanced version, rallies multiple compromised machines to cooperate in amplifying the magnitude of attack.
8. Social Engineering
Social engineering is a type of psychological manipulation that exploits human psychology to deceive individuals into divulging either confidential info or carry out security-endangering actions. Common tactics include pretexting, baiting, and tailgating.
9. Endpoint Security
Endpoint security deals with defending the whole gamut of devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets, protecting them against cyber threats. Types of measures appropriate for this purpose are antivirus software, EDR, and ATP.
10. Encryption
Encryption refers to the process of encoding information, done to prevent unauthorized access. Data that has been encrypted can be decrypted only by someone with the proper encryption key. This method is common in the protection of electronic transactions, email, and some other sensitive communication.
Final Thoughts
Knowing a few fundamental cybersecurity terms is the first step to protecting personal and organizational digital assets, especially with cyber threats forever taking on new forms and demands. At Jazz Cyber Shield, we make it our business to encourage the field to help individuals and businesses fortify their cybersecurity positions. Watch this space for more expert insights and advice on how to maintain your digital realm.
