A Brief Overview of Cybersecurity Issues

Cybersecurity, computer security, or network security is the prevention of information systems and computer networks from damage, theft of or destruction of their hardware, software or other electronic data, and from the interruption or misdirection of their services. Computer security experts are specially trained and equipped with the knowledge, experience, and tools to help organizations safeguard their most valuable asset – their information. As a result, any information that is stored on a network is extremely important to the smooth operations of a business. The importance of keeping cyber criminals and other unauthorized users from gaining access to a company’s most valuable intellectual property can not be overemphasized.

In the past, many in the business community were opposed to the use of common sense in determining what threats were best prevented by applying common standards such as firewalls, antivirus programs, and passwords, rather than relying on guesswork to protect sensitive data. Some even questioned whether or not these measures were effective in stopping hackers, because stopping hackers does not mean preventing malware attacks. In addition, many felt that the measures generally offered little real security, especially when it was offered in conjunction with strong passwords and other security measures such as firewalls. In recent years, public opinion has increasingly turned towards using common sense in determining which threats are best mitigated through the use of computer security measures, and there is now increasing agreement that this is a sound approach to improving the overall quality of cyber security.

Cybersecurity experts have continually warned businesses about the numerous malicious software programs that are continually being developed for the purpose of intruding upon the networks of corporations and stealing confidential information. In many cases, a malware attack occurs when an employee download and install a software program onto their work station without the knowledge or permission of IT administrators. Malware often works in conjunction with a computer virus, often gaining access to a computer system through security vulnerabilities in a website. In some cases, malware may be disguised as security software or utility applications, and may be able to operate automatically, without the knowledge or consent of the user, once on the network. In many cases, once malware has been installed, it can remain active and continue to gather personal and business related information even after the original developer of the application has removed it. In short, the risk of a cybersecurity breach is growing due to the continued growth of malicious software programs that can easily gain access to a company’s confidential information.