Cybersecurity
For my Cybersecurity course at Oulton College, I wrote an article in layman's terms about common cyber threats and how to protect against them.
Types of cyber threats:
Ransomware:
- Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files, making them unusable until you pay a ransom to the attacker.
Cryptomining:
- Cryptomining occurs when you access a website, and it runs a program in your browser that uses your computer's resources to mine cryptocurrency. This can cause your computer to slow down or crash.
Phishing:
- Phishing is an attempt by an attacker to trick you into giving away sensitive information, such as login credentials or credit card details. This is often done through emails or messages that contain links to fake login pages or malware.
To protect yourself from these attacks, there are several things you can do:
- Back up your files to multiple locations, such as AWS or OneDrive. This ensures that even if your computer is infected with ransomware, you still have access to your data.
- Before clicking on any links, hover your mouse over them to see the real link address. This can help you avoid clicking on malicious links.
- Be cautious when visiting a new website, and avoid installing unnecessary browser extensions or downloading unfamiliar software.
- Don't lend your USB flash drive to other people, and avoid inserting other people's USB flash drives into your computer.
- Use "Windows Sandbox" to test new programs before installing them on your main computer. This can help you avoid downloading and installing malware.
In conclusion, cyberattacks are a real threat to individuals and businesses alike. However, by understanding the types of attacks and taking preventive measures, you can protect yourself and your data from harm. Remember to always be vigilant when using the internet and to back up your important files regularly.
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