Cyber Security Essay for Students and Children

Cyber security essay.

Cybersecurity means protecting data, networks, programs and other information from unauthorized or unattended access, destruction or change. In today’s world, cybersecurity is very important because of some security threats and cyber-attacks. For data protection, many companies develop software. This software protects the data. Cybersecurity is important because not only it helps to secure information but also our system from virus attack. After the U.S.A. and China, India has the highest number of internet users.

cyber security essay

Cyber Threats

It can be further classified into 2 types. Cybercrime – against individuals, corporates, etc.and Cyberwarfare – against a state.

Cyber Crime

Use of cyberspace, i.e. computer, internet, cellphone, other technical devices, etc., to commit a crime by an individual or organized group is called cyber-crime. Cyber attackers use numerous software and codes in cyberspace to commit cybercrime. They exploit the weaknesses in the software and hardware design through the use of malware. Hacking is a common way of piercing the defenses of protected computer systems and interfering with their functioning. Identity theft is also common.

Cybercrimes may occur directly i.e,  targeting the computers directly by spreading computer viruses. Other forms include DoS attack. It is an attempt to make a machine or network resource unavailable to its intended users. It suspends services of a host connected to the internet which may be temporary or permanent.

Malware is a software used to disrupt computer operation, gather sensitive information, or gain access to private computer systems. It usually appears in the form of code, scripts, active content, and other software. ‘Malware’ refers to a variety of forms of hostile or intrusive software, for example, Trojan Horses, rootkits, worms, adware, etc.

Another way of committing cybercrime is independent of the Computer Network or Device. It includes Economic frauds. It is done to destabilize the economy of a country, attack on banking security and transaction system, extract money through fraud, acquisition of credit/debit card data, financial theft, etc.

Hinder the operations of a website or service through data alteration, data destruction. Others include using obscene content to humiliate girls and harm their reputation, Spreading pornography, threatening e-mail, assuming a fake identity, virtual impersonation. Nowadays misuse of social media in creating intolerance, instigating communal violence and inciting riots is happening a lot.

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Cyber Warfare

Snowden revelations have shown that Cyberspace could become the theatre of warfare in the 21st century. Future wars will not be like traditional wars which are fought on land, water or air. when any state initiates the use of internet-based invisible force as an instrument of state policy to fight against another nation, it is called cyberwar’.

It includes hacking of vital information, important webpages, strategic controls, and intelligence. In December 2014 the cyberattack a six-month-long cyberattack on the German parliament for which the Sofacy Group is suspected. Another example 2008 cyberattack on US Military computers. Since these cyber-attacks, the issue of cyber warfare has assumed urgency in the global media.

Inexpensive Cybersecurity Measures

  • The simplest thing you can do to up your security and rest easy at night knowing your data is safe is to change your passwords.
  • You should use a password manager tool like LastPass, Dashlane, or Sticky Password to keep track of everything for you. These applications help you to use unique, secure passwords for every site you need while also keeping track of all of them for you.
  • An easy way for an attacker to gain access to your network is to use old credentials that have fallen by the wayside. Hence delete unused accounts.
  • Enabling two-factor authentication to add some extra security to your logins. An extra layer of security that makes it harder for an attacker to get into your accounts.
  • Keep your Softwares up to date.

Today due to high internet penetration, cybersecurity is one of the biggest need of the world as cybersecurity threats are very dangerous to the country’s security. Not only the government but also the citizens should spread awareness among the people to always update your system and network security settings and to the use proper anti-virus so that your system and network security settings stay virus and malware-free.

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Cyber Security Essay

Cyber security is one of the most important topics in today’s digital world. With technology evolving at an unprecedented pace and more companies going online than ever before, it’s essential that everyone understands the basics of cyber security. Here are some sample essays on cyber security.

  • 100 Words Essay On Cyber Security

As a student in today's digital world, it's important to remember the importance of cyber security. Today, almost everything that we do is done online or through the internet, and that means our personal information, like our passwords, banking information, and even our school work, is vulnerable to cyber security threats.

200 Words Essay On Cyber Security

500 words essay on cyber security.

Cyber Security Essay

Cyber security is the practice of protecting networks, systems, and programs from digital attacks. These attacks can come from many different sources, including hackers, viruses, and even from other people. In order to stay safe online, it's essential to understand the basics of cyber security. Cyber security is an ever-evolving field, and it's important for school students to stay informed and take the necessary steps to protect themselves online.

School students are the future of our society, and it's important to teach them the importance of cyber security from an early age. Cyber security is an ever-increasing problem in our digital world, and it's up to us to ensure that our students are aware of the risks and dangers that come with the internet.

What Is Cyber Security?

Cyber security is the practice of protecting digital devices and networks from unauthorised access and malicious activities. With the rise of technology and its integration into our lives, cyber security has become an integral part of our lives, and it's important for school students to understand the need for cyber security measures.

How To Protect Yourself From Cyber Crime?

One of the most important ways to protect your devices and networks from cyber threats is to create strong passwords and never share them with anyone else. Passwords are the first line of defence against cyber attacks, and it's important that school students understand how to create and use strong passwords. Additionally, students should be taught to never share personal information online, such as passwords, credit card numbers, and bank account information.

Staying informed is the best way to stay ahead of the latest threats, and it's important for students to stay up-to-date on the latest cyber security news and updates.

Cyber security is the use of antivirus and anti-malware software. These programs are designed to detect and block malicious programs, such as viruses, worms, and Trojans, before they can do any damage to your devices and networks. By teaching our students about the importance of cyber security, we can ensure that they will be better prepared to protect themselves and their devices from cyber threats.

Cyber Security is essential for all those who regularly and frequently use electronic devices. With so much of our sensitive data and documents stored on these gadgets, it is essential to ensure their protection. There are several ways to protect your devices from cyber threats, such as using Antivirus and Antimalware software, and implementing End-User Protection solutions. Taking the necessary steps to secure your devices can help keep your data safe and secure.

Causes Of Cyber Crime

There are many different causes of cybercrime, but most can be categorised into one of three categories:

Personal gain | This is perhaps the most common motivation for cybercrime, as it can be very lucrative. Cybercriminals may engage in activities such as identity theft, phishing scams, and credit card fraud in order to make money.

Revenge or vandalism | Some cybercriminals commit crimes out of a desire for revenge or simply to cause havoc. They may engage in activities such as denial of service attacks, website defacement, or even doxxing (releasing personal information online).

Political or ideological motivations | In some cases, cybercrime is committed for political or ideological reasons. For example, hackers may attack a website in order to protest its content or disrupt its operations.

How To Increase Cyber Security

For school students, cyber security is especially important. Many students use the internet for their studies, making them more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Hackers may try to access school networks, steal student data, or even disrupt classes. It’s important for students to know how to protect themselves from cyber threats. There are some simple steps that you can take to ensure your safety and security.

The first step is to create strong passwords for all of your accounts. Passwords should be hard to guess and should never be shared with anyone. Make sure to use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. It's also important to change your passwords regularly.

Next, you should be sure to protect your personal information. This means making sure that you don't share your passwords or other sensitive information online. Be sure to use an up-to-date antivirus program to scan your computer regularly for malicious software.

Finally, be sure to stay informed about the latest cyber security threats. Keeping up with the news and reading articles on cyber security can help you stay aware of the latest threats and how to protect yourself against them.

By following these tips, you can stay safe online and protect your personal information. Cyber security is an important issue and it's important to take it seriously. If you take the time to learn more about cyber security and make sure you take steps to protect yourself, you can stay safe online and enjoy the benefits of today's digital world.

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Gynaecologist.

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Cardiothoracic Surgeon

Cardiothoracic surgeons are an important part of the surgical team. They usually work in hospitals, and perform emergency as well as scheduled operations. Some of the cardiothoracic surgeons also work in teaching hospitals working as teachers and guides for medical students aspiring to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. A career as a cardiothoracic surgeon involves treating and managing various types of conditions within their speciality that includes their presence at different locations such as outpatient clinics, team meetings, and ward rounds. 

For an individual who opts for a career as an actor, the primary responsibility is to completely speak to the character he or she is playing and to persuade the crowd that the character is genuine by connecting with them and bringing them into the story. This applies to significant roles and littler parts, as all roles join to make an effective creation. Here in this article, we will discuss how to become an actor in India, actor exams, actor salary in India, and actor jobs. 

Individuals who opt for a career as acrobats create and direct original routines for themselves, in addition to developing interpretations of existing routines. The work of circus acrobats can be seen in a variety of performance settings, including circus, reality shows, sports events like the Olympics, movies and commercials. Individuals who opt for a career as acrobats must be prepared to face rejections and intermittent periods of work. The creativity of acrobats may extend to other aspects of the performance. For example, acrobats in the circus may work with gym trainers, celebrities or collaborate with other professionals to enhance such performance elements as costume and or maybe at the teaching end of the career.

Video Game Designer

Career as a video game designer is filled with excitement as well as responsibilities. A video game designer is someone who is involved in the process of creating a game from day one. He or she is responsible for fulfilling duties like designing the character of the game, the several levels involved, plot, art and similar other elements. Individuals who opt for a career as a video game designer may also write the codes for the game using different programming languages.

Depending on the video game designer job description and experience they may also have to lead a team and do the early testing of the game in order to suggest changes and find loopholes.

Talent Agent

The career as a Talent Agent is filled with responsibilities. A Talent Agent is someone who is involved in the pre-production process of the film. It is a very busy job for a Talent Agent but as and when an individual gains experience and progresses in the career he or she can have people assisting him or her in work. Depending on one’s responsibilities, number of clients and experience he or she may also have to lead a team and work with juniors under him or her in a talent agency. In order to know more about the job of a talent agent continue reading the article.

If you want to know more about talent agent meaning, how to become a Talent Agent, or Talent Agent job description then continue reading this article.

Radio Jockey

Radio Jockey is an exciting, promising career and a great challenge for music lovers. If you are really interested in a career as radio jockey, then it is very important for an RJ to have an automatic, fun, and friendly personality. If you want to get a job done in this field, a strong command of the language and a good voice are always good things. Apart from this, in order to be a good radio jockey, you will also listen to good radio jockeys so that you can understand their style and later make your own by practicing.

A career as radio jockey has a lot to offer to deserving candidates. If you want to know more about a career as radio jockey, and how to become a radio jockey then continue reading the article.

Videographer

Careers in videography are art that can be defined as a creative and interpretive process that culminates in the authorship of an original work of art rather than a simple recording of a simple event. It would be wrong to portrait it as a subcategory of photography, rather photography is one of the crafts used in videographer jobs in addition to technical skills like organization, management, interpretation, and image-manipulation techniques. Students pursue Visual Media , Film, Television, Digital Video Production to opt for a videographer career path. The visual impacts of a film are driven by the creative decisions taken in videography jobs. Individuals who opt for a career as a videographer are involved in the entire lifecycle of a film and production. 

Multimedia Specialist

A multimedia specialist is a media professional who creates, audio, videos, graphic image files, computer animations for multimedia applications. He or she is responsible for planning, producing, and maintaining websites and applications. 

An individual who is pursuing a career as a producer is responsible for managing the business aspects of production. They are involved in each aspect of production from its inception to deception. Famous movie producers review the script, recommend changes and visualise the story. 

They are responsible for overseeing the finance involved in the project and distributing the film for broadcasting on various platforms. A career as a producer is quite fulfilling as well as exhaustive in terms of playing different roles in order for a production to be successful. Famous movie producers are responsible for hiring creative and technical personnel on contract basis.

Copy Writer

In a career as a copywriter, one has to consult with the client and understand the brief well. A career as a copywriter has a lot to offer to deserving candidates. Several new mediums of advertising are opening therefore making it a lucrative career choice. Students can pursue various copywriter courses such as Journalism , Advertising , Marketing Management . Here, we have discussed how to become a freelance copywriter, copywriter career path, how to become a copywriter in India, and copywriting career outlook. 

Careers in journalism are filled with excitement as well as responsibilities. One cannot afford to miss out on the details. As it is the small details that provide insights into a story. Depending on those insights a journalist goes about writing a news article. A journalism career can be stressful at times but if you are someone who is passionate about it then it is the right choice for you. If you want to know more about the media field and journalist career then continue reading this article.

For publishing books, newspapers, magazines and digital material, editorial and commercial strategies are set by publishers. Individuals in publishing career paths make choices about the markets their businesses will reach and the type of content that their audience will be served. Individuals in book publisher careers collaborate with editorial staff, designers, authors, and freelance contributors who develop and manage the creation of content.

In a career as a vlogger, one generally works for himself or herself. However, once an individual has gained viewership there are several brands and companies that approach them for paid collaboration. It is one of those fields where an individual can earn well while following his or her passion. 

Ever since internet costs got reduced the viewership for these types of content has increased on a large scale. Therefore, a career as a vlogger has a lot to offer. If you want to know more about the Vlogger eligibility, roles and responsibilities then continue reading the article. 

Individuals in the editor career path is an unsung hero of the news industry who polishes the language of the news stories provided by stringers, reporters, copywriters and content writers and also news agencies. Individuals who opt for a career as an editor make it more persuasive, concise and clear for readers. In this article, we will discuss the details of the editor's career path such as how to become an editor in India, editor salary in India and editor skills and qualities.

Advertising Manager

Advertising managers consult with the financial department to plan a marketing strategy schedule and cost estimates. We often see advertisements that attract us a lot, not every advertisement is just to promote a business but some of them provide a social message as well. There was an advertisement for a washing machine brand that implies a story that even a man can do household activities. And of course, how could we even forget those jingles which we often sing while working?

Photographer

Photography is considered both a science and an art, an artistic means of expression in which the camera replaces the pen. In a career as a photographer, an individual is hired to capture the moments of public and private events, such as press conferences or weddings, or may also work inside a studio, where people go to get their picture clicked. Photography is divided into many streams each generating numerous career opportunities in photography. With the boom in advertising, media, and the fashion industry, photography has emerged as a lucrative and thrilling career option for many Indian youths.

Social Media Manager

A career as social media manager involves implementing the company’s or brand’s marketing plan across all social media channels. Social media managers help in building or improving a brand’s or a company’s website traffic, build brand awareness, create and implement marketing and brand strategy. Social media managers are key to important social communication as well.

Quality Controller

A quality controller plays a crucial role in an organisation. He or she is responsible for performing quality checks on manufactured products. He or she identifies the defects in a product and rejects the product. 

A quality controller records detailed information about products with defects and sends it to the supervisor or plant manager to take necessary actions to improve the production process.

Production Manager

A Team Leader is a professional responsible for guiding, monitoring and leading the entire group. He or she is responsible for motivating team members by providing a pleasant work environment to them and inspiring positive communication. A Team Leader contributes to the achievement of the organisation’s goals. He or she improves the confidence, product knowledge and communication skills of the team members and empowers them.

Procurement Manager

The procurement Manager is also known as  Purchasing Manager. The role of the Procurement Manager is to source products and services for a company. A Procurement Manager is involved in developing a purchasing strategy, including the company's budget and the supplies as well as the vendors who can provide goods and services to the company. His or her ultimate goal is to bring the right products or services at the right time with cost-effectiveness. 

Merchandiser

A career as a merchandiser requires one to promote specific products and services of one or different brands, to increase the in-house sales of the store. Merchandising job focuses on enticing the customers to enter the store and hence increasing their chances of buying a product. Although the buyer is the one who selects the lines, it all depends on the merchandiser on how much money a buyer will spend, how many lines will be purchased, and what will be the quantity of those lines. In a career as merchandiser, one is required to closely work with the display staff in order to decide in what way a product would be displayed so that sales can be maximised. In small brands or local retail stores, a merchandiser is responsible for both merchandising and buying. 

Azure Administrator

An Azure Administrator is a professional responsible for implementing, monitoring, and maintaining Azure Solutions. He or she manages cloud infrastructure service instances and various cloud servers as well as sets up public and private cloud systems. 

AWS Solution Architect

An AWS Solution Architect is someone who specializes in developing and implementing cloud computing systems. He or she has a good understanding of the various aspects of cloud computing and can confidently deploy and manage their systems. He or she troubleshoots the issues and evaluates the risk from the third party. 

Computer Programmer

Careers in computer programming primarily refer to the systematic act of writing code and moreover include wider computer science areas. The word 'programmer' or 'coder' has entered into practice with the growing number of newly self-taught tech enthusiasts. Computer programming careers involve the use of designs created by software developers and engineers and transforming them into commands that can be implemented by computers. These commands result in regular usage of social media sites, word-processing applications and browsers.

ITSM Manager

Information security manager.

Individuals in the information security manager career path involves in overseeing and controlling all aspects of computer security. The IT security manager job description includes planning and carrying out security measures to protect the business data and information from corruption, theft, unauthorised access, and deliberate attack 

Big Data Analytics Engineer

Big Data Analytics Engineer Job Description: A Big Data Analytics Engineer is responsible for collecting data from various sources. He or she has to sort the organised and chaotic data to find out patterns. The role of Big Data Engineer involves converting messy information into useful data that is clean, accurate and actionable. 

Applications for Admissions are open.

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Empowering Protection in the Digital Age

The Importance of Cyber Security in Today’s World

  • By: Samuel Norris
  • Time to read: 24 min.

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With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing reliance on digital systems, the need for cyber security has become more crucial than ever. In this essay, we will explore the importance of cyber security in protecting our personal information, securing businesses and governments from cyber threats, and maintaining the trust and stability of our online world.

The importance of cyber security in protecting personal information

essay on cyber safety and security

In today’s digital age, the importance of cyber security in protecting personal information cannot be overstated. With the increasing prevalence of cybercrime and the ever-growing threat landscape, individuals and organizations must be vigilant in safeguarding their sensitive data. Cyber security measures are crucial not only to protect personal information from unauthorized access but also to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of data.

One of the primary reasons why cyber security is essential is the rising number of cyber threats, including hacking, phishing, malware, and ransomware. These malicious activities can result in identity theft, financial loss, reputational damage, and even legal consequences. By implementing robust cyber security measures, individuals can minimize the risk of falling victim to such cyber threats and ensure the safety of their personal information.

Moreover, the increasing reliance on digital platforms and online services has made personal information more vulnerable than ever before. From online banking to social media accounts, individuals store a wealth of personal data on various digital platforms. Without proper cyber security measures in place, this information is at risk of being exploited by cybercriminals. Therefore, individuals must take proactive steps to secure their personal information and prevent unauthorized access.

Furthermore, cyber security is not just the responsibility of individuals but also of organizations. Businesses, government agencies, and other institutions hold vast amounts of personal information for their clients and customers. Failing to protect this data can lead to severe consequences, not only for the individuals whose information is compromised but also for the organization’s reputation and financial stability. By investing in robust cyber security measures, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to protecting personal information and build trust with their stakeholders.

In conclusion, the importance of cyber security in protecting personal information cannot be understated. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats, individuals and organizations must prioritize the implementation of comprehensive cyber security measures. By doing so, they can safeguard personal data, minimize the risk of cybercrime, and maintain the trust and confidence of their customers and clients.

Cyber attacks and their impact on businesses and economies

essay on cyber safety and security

Cyber attacks have emerged as a major threat to businesses and economies across the globe. These malicious acts of hacking, data breaches, and online fraud have a profound impact on the stability and growth of businesses, as well as the overall health of economies. The perplexing nature of cyber attacks is evident in their ability to exploit vulnerabilities in digital systems, often catching businesses off guard. With burstiness, cyber attacks can occur suddenly and unexpectedly, causing significant disruption, financial losses, and reputational damage. Furthermore, the low predictability of these attacks makes it difficult for businesses to effectively safeguard their digital assets and stay one step ahead of cybercriminals. As businesses increasingly rely on technology for daily operations and economic transactions, the importance of strong cyber security measures cannot be overstated. Implementing robust security protocols, such as firewalls, encryption, and multi-factor authentication, is crucial for businesses to mitigate the risks posed by cyber attacks. Additionally, investing in employee training and awareness programs can help build a cyber-aware workforce, reducing the likelihood of successful attacks. In conclusion, the impact of cyber attacks on businesses and economies is undeniable, with a high level of perplexity and burstiness, and a low level of predictability. By prioritizing cyber security, businesses can protect their operations, customer data, and financial stability, ultimately contributing to the resilience and success of economies worldwide.

The role of cyber security in safeguarding national security

essay on cyber safety and security

In today’s interconnected world, the role of cyber security in safeguarding national security has become increasingly vital. With the rapid advancement of technology and the proliferation of digital systems, the potential threats to a nation’s security have also multiplied. Cyber attacks can target critical infrastructure, government networks, and even military systems, causing widespread disruption and damage. Therefore, it is imperative for governments to prioritize cyber security measures to protect their nations from these evolving threats.

Cyber security plays a crucial role in safeguarding national security by preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information and networks. It involves the implementation of robust cybersecurity protocols, such as firewalls, encryption, and multi-factor authentication, to defend against cyber threats. By securing networks and systems, governments can ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical data, thereby safeguarding national secrets, defense strategies, and citizen information.

Moreover, cyber security helps to maintain the stability and functionality of a nation’s infrastructure. As more critical services, such as power grids, transportation systems, and healthcare facilities, rely on digital networks, they become vulnerable to cyber attacks. By investing in cyber security measures, governments can mitigate the risk of disruption to these essential services, thereby protecting the safety and well-being of their citizens. Additionally, cyber security plays a pivotal role in defending against attacks on financial systems, preventing economic instability and preserving national prosperity.

Furthermore, cyber security is crucial for protecting national defense capabilities. Military networks and command and control systems are prime targets for cyber attacks, which can compromise operational readiness, disrupt communications, and undermine strategic planning. By implementing stringent cyber security measures, governments can ensure the resilience and effectiveness of their military forces, thereby safeguarding national defense capabilities and deterring potential adversaries.

In conclusion, the role of cyber security in safeguarding national security is of utmost importance in today’s digital age. By prioritizing and investing in robust cyber security measures, governments can protect critical infrastructure, defend against cyber attacks, and ensure the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative for nations to stay ahead by continuously enhancing their cyber security capabilities and collaborating with international partners to combat cyber threats.

The evolving threat landscape and the need for stronger cyber security measures

essay on cyber safety and security

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the threat of cyber attacks looms larger than ever before. As technology continues to advance, so do the tactics and sophistication of cyber criminals. This escalating threat landscape has necessitated the implementation of stronger and more robust cyber security measures .

Gone are the days when simple antivirus software and firewalls were enough to protect sensitive information. In the face of constantly evolving threats such as ransomware, phishing scams, and data breaches, organizations and individuals alike must stay one step ahead to safeguard their digital assets.

The first reason why we need stronger cyber security measures is the sheer volume and complexity of cyber threats. Cyber criminals are constantly devising new ways to exploit vulnerabilities in software, networks, and even human behavior. From malware that can invade our devices without detection to social engineering techniques that manipulate individuals into revealing sensitive information, the tactics used by cyber criminals are becoming more sophisticated and harder to predict. Without robust cyber security measures in place, organizations are at risk of falling victim to these evolving threats.

Furthermore, the increasing interconnectedness of devices and systems through the Internet of Things (IoT) has created new avenues for cyber attacks. From smart homes to critical infrastructure, any device connected to the internet can potentially be compromised. This highlights the need for stronger cyber security measures to protect not only personal information but also the safety and functionality of essential services.

Another crucial reason for stronger cyber security measures is the potential impact of a successful cyber attack. The consequences can be devastating, both financially and reputationally. Organizations can face significant financial losses due to stolen data, disruption of operations, and the cost of remediation. Moreover, the loss of customer trust and the damage to a company’s reputation can be irreparable.

In conclusion, the ever-evolving threat landscape necessitates the adoption of stronger cyber security measures . The increasing volume and complexity of cyber threats, the expanding IoT, and the potential consequences of a successful attack all underscore the importance of prioritizing cyber security. Investing in robust cyber security measures is not only a proactive approach to protecting sensitive data and systems but also a vital step in safeguarding the overall well-being of organizations and individuals in our digital world.

Cyber security best practices for individuals and organizations

essay on cyber safety and security

Cyber security is not just a concern for governments and large corporations; it is equally crucial for individuals and small organizations. In today’s digital age, where cyber threats are constantly evolving, implementing best practices is essential to protect sensitive information and maintain data integrity. This article will discuss some of the top cyber security best practices that individuals and organizations should follow.

  • Strong and Unique Passwords: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to enhance cyber security is by using strong and unique passwords. Avoid using common passwords or personal information that can be easily guessed. Consider using a password manager to generate and securely store complex passwords.
  • Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, such as a code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password.
  • Regular Software Updates: Keeping all software and operating systems up to date is crucial. Software updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities, which hackers can exploit. Set up automatic updates to ensure that you are always running the latest versions.
  • Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Protect your home or office Wi-Fi network with a strong and unique password. Additionally, consider enabling network encryption, such as WPA2, to secure the communication between devices and the network.
  • Employee Training and Awareness: Organizations should prioritize cyber security training and awareness programs for their employees. This helps ensure that everyone understands the importance of following security protocols and recognizes potential threats like phishing emails or suspicious links.
  • Regular Data Backups: Regularly backing up important data is crucial in case of a cyber attack or data loss. Store backups on separate devices or in the cloud, and test the restoration process periodically to ensure the data can be recovered.
  • Firewalls and Antivirus Software: Install and regularly update firewalls and antivirus software on all devices. These security tools provide an additional layer of protection against malware, viruses, and other cyber threats.
  • Secure Web Browsing: Be cautious when browsing the internet. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources. Use reputable web browsers and consider using browser extensions that provide additional security features.

By implementing these cyber security best practices, individuals and organizations can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyber attacks and protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and stay secure!

The cost of cyber attacks and the value of investing in cyber security

In today’s digital age, the cost of cyber attacks is staggering. The value of investing in cyber security cannot be overstated. Cyber attacks not only lead to significant financial losses for businesses, but also result in reputational damage, legal consequences, and potential customer distrust. It is crucial for organizations to understand the true extent of the impact cyber attacks can have on their bottom line.

The financial cost of cyber attacks is multifaceted. The direct expenses include incident response, recovery, and potential ransom payments. However, the long-term financial repercussions often extend far beyond these immediate costs. Companies may suffer from lost revenue due to downtime, loss of intellectual property, or the need to invest in new security measures to prevent future attacks. Additionally, there are legal expenses and fines that can result from non-compliance with data protection regulations.

Furthermore, the intangible costs of cyber attacks are equally significant. A breach of customer data can lead to a loss of trust and loyalty, impacting customer retention and acquisition. The damage to reputation may result in decreased brand value and a loss of competitive advantage. Rebuilding trust and repairing a damaged reputation can be a time-consuming and expensive process.

Investing in cyber security is essential to mitigate the risks posed by cyber attacks. By implementing robust security measures and proactive monitoring, organizations can greatly reduce the likelihood and impact of successful attacks. The investment in cyber security is not just a cost, but rather an investment in the longevity and resilience of the business.

Cyber security measures include securing networks, implementing strong access controls, regularly updating and patching software, educating employees about security best practices, and conducting regular security audits. By staying ahead of evolving threats and investing in the right technology and expertise, organizations can enhance their ability to detect, respond to, and recover from cyber attacks.

In conclusion, the cost of cyber attacks is not limited to immediate financial losses. The long-term consequences, including reputational damage and legal ramifications, can be equally devastating. Investing in cyber security is not only a smart financial decision, but also a critical step in safeguarding the future of any organization. By understanding the true cost of cyber attacks and the value of investing in cyber security, businesses can make informed decisions to protect themselves and their stakeholders.

The correlation between cyber security and privacy in the digital age

In the fast-paced digital age, the correlation between cyber security and privacy has become increasingly intricate and crucial. As technology continues to evolve, so do the threats posed by cybercriminals, making it imperative to prioritize both security and privacy measures.

Cyber security serves as the first line of defense against malicious attacks and unauthorized access. It encompasses a range of practices, protocols, and technologies designed to safeguard computer systems, networks, and data from potential threats. By implementing robust cyber security measures, individuals and organizations can protect their sensitive information, prevent data breaches, and maintain the confidentiality and integrity of their digital assets.

However, cyber security is not solely about protecting data; it is also closely intertwined with the concept of privacy. In the digital landscape, privacy refers to an individual’s right to control their personal information and determine how and when it is shared. With the proliferation of online platforms, social media, and e-commerce, maintaining privacy has become more challenging than ever before.

The advancements in technology have allowed for the collection, storage, and analysis of vast amounts of personal data. This data, when in the wrong hands, can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and other serious privacy breaches. Therefore, ensuring robust cyber security measures is directly linked to safeguarding privacy in the digital age.

The correlation between cyber security and privacy becomes even more significant when considering the potential consequences of a breach. A single data breach can have far-reaching implications, both on an individual level and for organizations. It can result in reputational damage, financial losses, legal liabilities, and erosion of trust. Such breaches can also compromise national security, disrupt critical infrastructure, and impact the overall stability of the digital ecosystem.

To address these challenges, individuals and organizations must adopt a proactive approach to cyber security and privacy. This includes staying informed about the latest threats and vulnerabilities, regularly updating software and security protocols, implementing strong passwords and encryption techniques, and being cautious while sharing personal information online.

In conclusion, the correlation between cyber security and privacy is undeniable in the digital age. Both aspects are intertwined and essential for safeguarding sensitive information, maintaining online trust, and preserving the integrity of the digital ecosystem. By prioritizing cyber security and privacy, individuals and organizations can navigate the digital landscape with confidence and mitigate the risks posed by cyber threats.

The role of government in promoting and enforcing cyber security regulations

In today’s digital age, the role of government in promoting and enforcing cyber security regulations is of paramount importance. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, it has become imperative for governments to actively intervene and safeguard their nations’ vital digital infrastructure and sensitive information. This article delves into the reasons why the government plays a crucial role in ensuring cyber security and the impact of their regulations on protecting individuals, businesses, and national security.

First and foremost, the government has the authority and resources to establish robust cyber security regulations that set standards and guidelines for all sectors. By creating a legal framework, they enforce compliance and hold organizations accountable for implementing appropriate security measures. This helps to create a culture of cyber security awareness and ensures that businesses prioritize the protection of valuable data.

Moreover, governments have access to intelligence and information sharing networks that enable them to identify emerging threats and vulnerabilities. By actively monitoring cyber activities, they can proactively respond to potential attacks and prevent major security breaches. This proactive approach not only protects individuals and businesses but also strengthens the overall resilience of the nation’s digital infrastructure.

Additionally, the government plays a vital role in promoting international cooperation and establishing global cyber security standards. Since cyber threats transcend national boundaries, collaboration between governments is essential to address these challenges collectively. By participating in international forums and treaties, governments can foster information exchange, capacity building, and joint efforts to combat cybercrime.

Furthermore, the government’s involvement in cyber security regulations is crucial for national security. Cyber attacks have the potential to disrupt critical infrastructure, compromise defense systems, and even manipulate elections. By establishing stringent regulations and investing in cyber defense capabilities, governments can safeguard their nation’s sovereignty and protect against potential cyber warfare.

However, it is important to strike a balance between promoting cyber security and ensuring individual privacy rights. Governments need to find the right balance between collecting necessary data for security purposes and protecting citizens’ privacy. This requires transparent and accountable governance, with checks and balances in place to prevent misuse of power.

In conclusion, the role of government in promoting and enforcing cyber security regulations is vital in today’s interconnected world. With the increasing complexity and severity of cyber threats, governments need to take proactive measures to protect their nations’ digital assets. By establishing robust regulations, fostering international cooperation, and investing in cyber defense capabilities, governments can create a safe and secure digital environment for individuals, businesses, and national security.

Emerging technologies and their impact on cyber security challenges

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, emerging technologies have brought about immense advancements and opportunities. However, along with these advancements, there also arises a new set of challenges and concerns, particularly in the realm of cyber security. The impact of emerging technologies on cyber security cannot be underestimated, as they introduce novel vulnerabilities and risks that need to be addressed proactively.

One of the main reasons why emerging technologies pose such challenges to cyber security is their inherent complexity. These technologies, such as artificial intelligence , cloud computing , Internet of Things (IoT) , and blockchain , often operate in intricate and interconnected ecosystems. This complexity increases the attack surface for cyber criminals, making it harder to detect and mitigate potential threats.

Furthermore, emerging technologies are constantly evolving, which adds another layer of difficulty to cyber security efforts. As new innovations are introduced, cyber criminals adapt and find new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. This dynamic and ever-evolving nature of emerging technologies requires cyber security professionals to stay ahead of the curve, constantly updating their knowledge and skills to effectively combat emerging threats.

Moreover, the rapid pace at which emerging technologies are being adopted and integrated into various sectors further amplifies the cyber security challenges. Organizations are often quick to embrace these technologies to gain a competitive edge, but fail to adequately address the associated security risks. This creates a gap that cyber criminals can exploit, potentially leading to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage.

Another aspect of the impact of emerging technologies on cyber security is the increased scale of connectivity and data sharing. With the proliferation of interconnected devices and systems, the volume of data being generated and transmitted has skyrocketed. This vast amount of data creates new opportunities for cyber attacks, as cyber criminals can target and exploit weak points in the data flow.

In conclusion, emerging technologies have undoubtedly revolutionized various industries, but they have also introduced complex cyber security challenges. The inherent complexity, constant evolution, rapid adoption, and increased scale of connectivity all contribute to the perplexity and burstiness of these challenges. To effectively address these challenges, organizations and individuals must prioritize cyber security and invest in robust measures to protect their systems, data, and networks.

The future of cyber security: trends and predictions

The future of cyber security is an enigmatic landscape that is constantly evolving, filled with both promising advancements and daunting challenges. As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented rate, the need for robust cyber security measures becomes increasingly vital. With the rise of artificial intelligence , the Internet of Things , and the ever-expanding digital landscape, our reliance on technology has become both a blessing and a curse, opening new doors of opportunity while leaving us vulnerable to cyber threats.

In this rapidly changing environment, the future of cyber security will be characterized by perplexity and burstiness. Perplexity, as the complexity and sophistication of cyber threats continue to outpace traditional security measures. Burstiness, as malicious actors constantly adapt their tactics, techniques, and procedures to exploit vulnerabilities in our digital infrastructure.

To effectively navigate this uncertain future, a proactive and adaptive approach to cyber security is crucial. Organizations need to embrace a holistic and multi-layered approach that encompasses not only technology but also people and processes. This includes investing in cutting-edge technologies such as advanced threat intelligence , machine learning , and behavioral analytics to detect and respond to emerging threats in real time.

Additionally, collaboration and information sharing will play a pivotal role in bolstering cyber security defenses. Governments, private sector companies, and individuals must come together to exchange best practices, threat intelligence, and lessons learned. By fostering a collective defense mindset, we can stay one step ahead of cyber criminals and minimize the impact of future attacks.

The future of cyber security is uncertain, with new threats and vulnerabilities emerging on a regular basis. However, by embracing innovation, collaboration, and a proactive mindset, we can build a more secure digital future. It is essential that we invest in research and development, education and awareness, and the cultivation of a skilled cyber security workforce to tackle the challenges that lie ahead. Together, we can shape a future where technology and security coexist harmoniously, protecting our digital assets and ensuring a safer online world for generations to come.

What is cyber security?

Cyber security refers to the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and devices from digital attacks, unauthorized access, and data breaches.

Why do we need cyber security?

We need cyber security to safeguard our sensitive information, such as personal data, financial details, and business secrets, from being stolen, misused, or manipulated by cybercriminals.

What are the common cyber threats?

Common cyber threats include malware (such as viruses and ransomware), phishing attacks, social engineering, hacking, and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks.

How can cyber security help individuals?

Cyber security helps individuals by providing protection against identity theft, online scams, and unauthorized access to personal accounts or devices. It allows for safe online banking, shopping, and communication.

Why is cyber security important for businesses?

Cyber security is crucial for businesses to protect their valuable data, maintain customer trust, comply with regulations, prevent financial losses, and avoid reputational damage caused by cyber incidents.

What are some best practices for cyber security?

Some best practices for cyber security include using strong and unique passwords, keeping software and devices up to date, being cautious of suspicious emails or links, regularly backing up data, and using reliable antivirus software.

Is cyber security a constant concern?

Yes, cyber security is an ongoing concern as cyber threats evolve and become more sophisticated. It requires continuous updates, monitoring, and proactive measures to stay protected.

Can individuals contribute to cyber security?

Yes, individuals can contribute to cyber security by practicing good cyber hygiene, educating themselves about online risks, using secure networks, and reporting any suspicious activities or incidents to appropriate authorities.

In conclusion, cyber security is crucial in today’s digital age. It plays a vital role in protecting individuals, businesses, and governments from cyber threats. With the increasing reliance on technology and the rise of sophisticated cyber attacks, having robust cyber security measures in place is essential. It not only safeguards sensitive information but also ensures the integrity and availability of data. By investing in cyber security, we can mitigate risks, safeguard privacy, and maintain trust in the digital ecosystem. Therefore, it is imperative that individuals and organizations prioritize cyber security to prevent and combat cyber threats effectively.

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Why Data Breaches Spiked in 2023

  • Stuart Madnick

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And what companies can do to better secure users’ personal information.

In spite of recent efforts to beef up cybersecurity, data breaches — in which hackers steal personal data — continue to increase year-on-year: there was a 20% increase in data breaches from 2022 to 2023. There are three primary reasons behind this increased theft of personal data: (1) cloud misconfiguration, (2) new types of ransomware attacks, and (3) increased exploitation of vendor systems. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the impact of each of these factors.

For many years, organizations have struggled to protect themselves from cyberattacks: companies, universities, and government agencies have expended enormous amounts of resources to secure themselves. But in spite of those efforts, data breaches — in which hackers steal personal data — continue to increase year-on-year: there was a 20% increase in data breaches from 2022 to 2023 . Some of the trends around this uptick are disturbing. For example, globally, there were twice the number of victims in 2023 compared to 2022, and in the Middle East, ransomware gang activity increased by 77% in that same timeframe.

  • Stuart Madnick  is the John Norris Maguire (1960) Professor of Information Technologies in the MIT Sloan School of Management, Professor of Engineering Systems in the MIT School of Engineering, and Director of Cybersecurity at MIT Sloan (CAMS): the Interdisciplinary Consortium for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity. He has been active in the cybersecurity field since co-authoring the book Computer Security in 1979.

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AI hype as a cyber security risk: the moral responsibility of implementing generative AI in business

  • Original Research
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  • Published: 23 February 2024

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  • Declan Humphreys   ORCID: orcid.org/0009-0008-2693-7340 1 ,
  • Abigail Koay   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-4130-9931 1 ,
  • Dennis Desmond   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-1278-6306 1 &
  • Erica Mealy   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-8119-151X 1  

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This paper examines the ethical obligations companies have when implementing generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). We point to the potential cyber security risks companies are exposed to when rushing to adopt generative AI solutions or buying into “AI hype”. While the benefits of implementing generative AI solutions for business have been widely touted, the inherent risks associated have been less well publicised. There are growing concerns that the race to integrate generative AI is not being accompanied by adequate safety measures. The rush to buy into the hype of generative AI and not fall behind the competition is potentially exposing companies to broad and possibly catastrophic cyber-attacks or breaches. In this paper, we outline significant cyber security threats generative AI models pose, including potential ‘backdoors’ in AI models that could compromise user data or the risk of ‘poisoned’ AI models producing false results. In light of these the cyber security concerns, we discuss the moral obligations of implementing generative AI into business by considering the ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, justice, and explicability. We identify two examples of ethical concern, overreliance and over-trust in generative AI, both of which can negatively influence business decisions, leaving companies vulnerable to cyber security threats. This paper concludes by recommending a set of checklists for ethical implementation of generative AI in business environment to minimise cyber security risk based on the discussed moral responsibilities and ethical concern.

Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.

1 Introduction

The recent hype around AI has seen many companies rush to incorporate generative AI to their business strategy. A recent IBM study found that nearly 80% of UK businesses have already deployed generative AI in their business or are planning to within the next year [ 1 ]. The message to industry seems clear “Organizations are seizing the generative AI moment to capture opportunities … Those that don’t will be stuck in the control tower wondering why they’ve fallen behind.” [ 2 ].

Generative AI models take large amounts of data and are then trained to produce data that resembles the most commonly found elements. A Large Language Model (LLM) is a type of generative AI model that assigns statistical probabilities to a sequence of words. These probabilities help to generate human like responses in natural language processing tasks [ 3 ]. Companies are using these LLMs such as ChatGPT, LLaMA, Claude, and Gemini to aid many areas of business. The areas which are most likely to see the potential of generative AI to improve businesses are areas such as sales, marketing, software engineering, customer service and product research and development [ 4 ]. The benefits of its implementation are still being tested, but there is early evidence that AI-based assistants can improve the performance of novice or low-skilled workers [ 5 ].

However, there are growing concerns that the race to integrate generative AI is not being accompanied by adequate guardrails or safety evaluations [ 6 ]. A recent global survey on AI found that few companies were fully prepared for the widespread use of generative AI [ 7 ]. The rush to buy into the hype of generative AI, and not fall behind the competition, is potentially exposing organisations to broad and possibly catastrophic cyber-attacks or breaches. In the growing area of cyber security ethics, the hype around AI presents a novel risk, one which could lead companies to fail in their moral obligation to keep company and individual’s data safe and secure.

We have already seen Microsoft AI researchers accidently leak 38 TB of private training data [ 8 ]; Samsung employees inputting sensitive source code into ChatGPT, [ 9 ]; and a bug in ChatGPT exposing active user’s chat history [ 10 ]. Beyond the risk due to accidents or human error, there are more malicious threats posed by generative AI. Imagined scenarios could see targeted manipulation of the data driving a company’s model to spread misinformation or influence business decisions [ 11 ]. Risks are also increased with the reliance on third-party AI providers, with more than half (55%) of AI related failures stemming from third-party tools, companies can be left vulnerable to unmitigated risks [ 12 ].

It is evident that generative AI poses new and novel threats to business security. A recent IBM survey found that 96% of surveyed business executives expect that adopting generative AI will make a security breach likely in the next three years [ 11 ]. However, this report noted a “glaring disconnect between the understanding of generative AI cyber security needs and the implementation of cyber security measures” [ 11 ]. Reportedly, only 24% of generative AI projects will include a cyber security component within the next 6 months, with 69% of executives saying that innovation takes precedence over cyber security for generative AI [ 11 ]. A separate study found that 53% of organisations saw cyber security as a generative AI-related risk, with only 38% working to mitigate that risk [ 7 ].

The hype around generative AI in business, therefore, presents an area of ethical concern. Ethics is at the core of cyber security, as it is increasingly required to prevent harm to people, not just information, and to protect our ability to live well [ 13 , 14 , 15 ]. Companies have a duty of care toward their users, customers, and employees with regard to protecting the data they hold [ 16 ]. The world is now so reliant on secure networks and systems to protect identities, personal information, and livelihoods that breaches to can have major disruptions and disastrous effects on individual’s lives [ 17 ]. Beyond the effect on the public, it is in the financial interest of companies to focus on cyber security with the average cost of a data breach in 2023 being USD 4.45 million [ 18 ].

As our analysis of potential threats to generative AI models, such as LLMs, will show businesses need to be aware of the increased risk to privacy and security. While companies tout the vast benefits of generative AI for business productivity, there needs to be a greater focus on effective mitigation of threats posed to and by generative AI models [ 6 ]. Conversations of these risks have generally been kept within cyber security industry professionals, but there needs to be a wider understanding of the vulnerabilities which generative AI is susceptible to before organisations jump to using them. There is an ethical responsibility for business to consider the cyber security risk associated with generative AI, and for this information to be shared with the general public.

2 Cyber security as an area of ethical inquiry

As more and more data and information is stored online, and more services move to digital operations, the threat to the security and risk of harm also increases. The definition of cyber security has evolved over time and it often contested [ 19 ]. There remains the question as to whether cyber security is a role, a field, a discipline, or a practical application encompassing a combination of information security, operational security, network and communications security or other security focused disciplines.

A thorough and systematic review of historical definitions of cyber security by Schatz, et al. [ 19 ] arrived at a definition of cyber security that includes the key aspects of protecting information as the core asset. To wit: “ The approach and actions associated with security risk management processes followed by organizations and states to protect confidentiality, integrity and availability of data and assets used in cyber space. The concept includes guidelines, policies and collections of safeguards, technologies, tools and training to provide the best protection for the state of the cyber environment and its users.” [ 19 ].

Schatz’ inclusion of basic protection of the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information has become prescient with the advent of AI generated deepfakes, celebrity images, and AI journalism employing automated authors. This has also led to a greater focus on the ethical implications of cyber security processes and policy. Integrity, for example, is defined as guarding against improper information modification and includes ensuring information authenticity [ 20 ].

Cyber security is a growing field of ethical investigation, with developing literature into the ethical challenges, risks and issues associated [ 14 , 21 , 22 ]. Whether monitoring information flows of individuals, intrusive measures to identify child sexual exploitation material, or restricting access to online sites to deter terrorism and extremism, cyber security can be both intrusive and violate norms of privacy.

One issue faced by the cyber security ethicist is the broad nature of the field of cyber security. There has been a distinction made between the ethics of national or state based cyber security and business or commercial cyber security [ 14 ]. The former of these takes in topics such as the application of just war theory to cyberwar and espionage [ 23 , 24 , 25 ]. However, it is questionable whether cyberwar and espionage do fall under the purview of cyber security or whether cyber security provides a supporting capability to ensure their success.

Alternatively, in the private sector, there are numerous areas of inquiry that fit under the broad umbrella of cyber security ethics. Recent work has focused on the ethics of conducting cyber security research [ 26 ]; the ethical balance between needing internet traffic to be monitored for security, but also wanting it to be private [ 27 ]; the concept of “ethical hacking” to test security of networks or employees [ 28 ]; as well as the ethical obligations of businesses to protect their data [ 16 , 29 ].

We will concentrate on the new ethical challenges presented by generative AI and the resulting cyber security implications for an organisation. To narrow the ethical focus of this paper, we will concentrate on the moral responsibility businesses have to protect their assets as well as user and employee data. It will be shown that the ethical considerations for cyber security on business have clear crossovers for the implementation of generative AI.

Whereas generative AI for public consumption is a relatively new phenomenon, many of the ethical considerations can be derived from previous research and applications of ethics to cyber security activities. The ability to apply ethical considerations to emerging technologies will continue to challenge cyber security professionals as new applications appear and see mainstream adoption.

3 Literature review

In this section we look at the background literature related to AI in cyber security as well as the growing literature on the ethical issues around generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT. We will conclude by showing where the gaps in the literature lie and clearly note the contributions this paper makes to the field. We note that, while there is literature around the risks of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, this has not yet translated into the discourse of business ethics. This paper takes the unique angle of framing the implementation of generative AI as a question of business ethics and cyber security ethics.

3.1 AI in cyber security

The relationship between AI and cyber security is not new, with autonomous or semi-autonomous systems for cyber security defence being on the market for a number of years. In 2017, for example, DarkLight was released in what was then called “first of its kind” artificial intelligence tool to enhance cyber security defence [ 30 ]. There has since been literature highlighting the beneficial uses of AI in cyber security defence.

Early uses of AI in cyber security were based around developing discriminative-based machine learning (ML) or deep learning (DL) AI models. ML tools are capable of discriminating data through classifying information, and recognising specific patterns [ 31 ]. Though powerful, ML is also limited in terms of threat detection as it acts according to pre-defined features, meaning that any features not pre-defined will evade detection [ 31 ]. DL models, a subset of ML, on the other hand are able to learn high-level abstract characteristics, or deeper features of given data, making them excel at things like image and speech recognition, text analysis and natural language processing [ 32 ]. This benefits cyber security as it enables the detection of unknown attackers or novel forms of malware. AI assists in cyber security through constructing models for malware classification, intrusion detection and threat intelligence sensing [ 18 ]. Because AI has the ability to extract patterns from large datasets, and adapt to new information, it can accurately make predictions to improve cyber security [ 33 ].

3.2 Cyber security of AI

While the benefits of AI in cyber security have become evident in the preceding years, the malicious threats to AI models have also been recognised. ML and DL models used in AI systems such as recommendation systems or facial recognition are susceptible to ‘poisoning’ or manipulation, potentially undermining their integrity and useability [ 3 , 6 , 34 ]. In practical terms, injecting misleading or incorrect data into an AI model used for cyber security defence can skew its decision making causing it to overlook vulnerabilities or misidentify threats [ 33 ].

Since the increased popularity of generative AI, spurred by the release of ChatGPT in 2022, new discussions have surfaced on the usefulness and risks of such technology. Generative AI is a branch of ML and DL which is capable of creating new data that is similar to its training data set [ 35 ]. Large language models, such as ChatGPT, use text as their dataset, and have caused a boom in AI interest and hype.

The use of generative AI been explored in areas such as healthcare [ 36 , 37 ], education [ 38 ], academia [ 39 ], creative industries [ 40 ], journalism, and media [ 41 ]. At the time of writing, empirical study of the effect of generative AI within work and business is in its infancy, yet its far-ranging impacts are being explored. Studies have so far looked at the effect of generative AI in areas such as call centres [ 5 ], on knowledge worker productivity and quality [ 42 ], risk management and finance [ 43 ] and on operations and supply chains [ 44 ].

3.3 Ethical concerns and risks in AI

For all the new applications and advances in efficiency which generative AI is showing, it has also undoubtedly brought concern with recent work focusing on the ethics around generative AI and ChatGPT [ 45 ]. Some of this literature focuses on the threat which generative AI will have for jobs [ 46 , 47 ], bias in training data affecting its output [ 48 , 49 ], or a diminishing of critical thinking and problem-solving skills amongst users [ 50 ]. Other concerns circle around the threat of disinformation [ 51 ], manipulation of public sentiment [ 52 ], and a widening socio-economic inequalities [ 46 ].

With regards to cyber security, recent work has highlighted the risks to generative AI models such as ChatGPT, and their susceptibility to data poisoning and manipulation [ 3 , 6 , 34 ] similar to earlier ML or DL models. Companies making AI models, such as Open AI and Google, have published their own findings on the risks associated with these models and the techniques they used to train them [ 53 , 54 ]. Generative AI has also reduced the barrier of entry for cybercriminals, helping in malware creation and phishing attacks [ 55 ].

Literature on the cyber security risk of generative AI for business is beginning, with ChatGPT in particular being cited as a potential risk. This includes the risk of data breaches or unauthorised access to user conversations as well as the risk of staff putting sensitive information into the program [ 56 ]. However, there is still a gap in literature translating the technical threats of generative AI into a business setting.

While we have noted some of the ethical issues raised by generative AI, limited work has been done in systematically applying ethical frameworks or lenses to these issues. Schlagwein and Willocks [ 57 ] apply deontological and teleological lenses to judge the ethical use of AI in research and science. Illia et al. [ 58 ] apply a stakeholder theory approach to the ethics of using AI for text-generation in business. The latter, arguing that the use of AI agents diminishes direct communication between stakeholders, potentially causing misunderstandings and leading to a decreased level of trust between parties.

Our paper will look at issues in generative AI in business, through the lens of ethical principles similar to those found in bio-ethics, namely: beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, justice and explicability. This builds on work in applying ethical principles both to AI [ 59 ] and to cyber security [ 14 ].We note that not all are convinced of the efficacy of a principlist approach to AI ethics, Bruschi and Diomede [ 60 ] provide a useful summary of this argument. However, while our paper focusses on generative AI, it also does so by looking at it as a technological innovation in the workplace. Thus, we build upon literature which applies ethical principles to the introduction of new technology in society and into the workplace [ 61 , 62 ].

From this review we can see that there is growing literature outlining the risk which could befall Generative AI models. However, this concern has not yet been translated into discourse around the ethical implementation of generative AI for business. This is evidenced by the lack of awareness or concern around the cyber security risk of gen AI amongst business leaders [ 11 ]. This paper therefore makes the following contributions:

Supports the case for cyber security being an ethical obligation for business, using normative ethical principles.

Highlights literature on the cyber security risks associated with generative AI, including the risks of poisoning, manipulation, and data leakage.

Demonstrates how the risks associated with generative AI can threaten business operations and their responsibilities to stakeholders.

Makes the case that businesses have an ethical obligation to consider the cyber security risk of generative AI and provides suggestions based on ethical considerations and analysis.

4 Cyber security of AI as an ethical obligation for business

While many have recognised the need for ethics in cyber security, there has been little clear consensus about the most appropriate framework from which to investigate ethical issues the field. Some advocate for the use of traditional frameworks of deontology, utilitarianism and virtue ethics [ 21 ] while others have proposed using a principlist approach adopted from areas such as bio-ethics [ 14 ].

While broad moral theories of utilitarianism or deontology provide guidance, their effectiveness falls when applied to situations which require pragmatic solutions [ 14 ]. The contextual nuances of cyber security provide difficulty in applying such general theories. For example, some have noted the substantial difficulty in applying a general theory of consequentialism or deontology to a process such as tracking a hacker through the machines of innocent persons [ 63 ].

Greater success has been found in applying ethical principles like those adopted in the field of bioethics. To analyse the ethical obligation of implementing generative AI in business with respect to cyber security concerns, we propose a combination of the ethical framework for a Good AI society from Floridi et al. [ 59 ] and the principlist ethics for cyber security from Formosa et al. [ 14 ].

It is our contention that the application of the moral principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, justice and explicability are the most suitable to analyse the ethical concerns regarding the cyber security risks of generative AI for companies. Because adoption of generative AI in business combines both issues of ethical AI and ethics of cyber security, there is utility in applying such a set of principles.

It is evident now that generative AI will have a major impact on the way companies do business, but there are still questions around the opportunities and risks associated with its adoption. An ethical adoption of generative AI should also take into consideration the cyber security risk associated with its implementation. In the next few subsections, we present how the ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, justice and explicability relate to businesses adoption of generative AI considering cyber security.

4.1 Beneficence

A core principle of bioethics, beneficence concerns promoting well-being or “doing good”. Implementing a technology such as AI should be for the common good and to generally promote the well-being of people [ 59 ]. Similarly, beneficence in cyber security means protecting privacy and personal data, which subsequently promotes well-being of the public [ 14 ]. Good cyber security also has the added benefit of enhancing the reputation of a company and building trust among their customers.

While AI presents certain risks as we will outline in the following sections, it also opens beneficial opportunities for business such as the potential to increase productivity and reduce workloads on staff [ 5 ]. In cyber security, for example, generative AI can increase threat detection, automate repetitive tasks, scan for threats and learn to detect threat patterns to detect malicious traffic on a network [ 56 ].

It should be noted there is an issue of value judgements when identifying benefits of adopting a new technology. What is best for a company in terms of their bottom line might be different to what is best for individual workers and what is best for the company’s customers.

4.2 Non-maleficence

Non-maleficence or the “do no harm” principle, warns against causing harm or making our lives worse-off overall [ 14 ]. Regarding the development of AI, there should be caution “against the many potentially negative consequences of overusing or misusing AI technologies” [ 59 ].

Similarly, steps must be taken in cyber security to prevent unduly increasing threats or harms to business or other stakeholders. Cyber security practices focus on three core principles: confidentiality, availability and integrity (known as the CIA triad) [ 22 ]. Where confidentiality is broken, information is made unavailable, or the integrity of data is compromised then harm can follow [ 14 ].

In both digital ethics and cyber security, any technology which is implemented in an organisation must be done so with the consideration of the type of harm which could occur and the likelihood of such harm occurring. Accordingly, introducing generative AI must also be done without increasing the risks of harm through breaches in cyber security. Harms can include economic and psychological harms to individuals who, for example, have to go through the stress of being victims of theft or identity fraud [ 17 ]. Harm can also come in the form of financial or reputational loss for organisations [ 17 ]. Organisational planning and work to prevent such harm occurring falls under the principle of non-maleficence [ 14 ].

4.3 Autonomy

In medical ethics, autonomy refers to ability for everyone to have a right to decide for themselves about their own treatment. Autonomy in relation to AI becomes more complex, as we willingly give over forms of control over decision-making power to machines [ 59 ]. Autonomy means balancing what we decide to do for ourselves, and what we give over or delegate to systems and machines [ 59 ]. It can refer to the ability for human agents to be able to choose when to implement, or what decisions to take based on AI recommendations.

There is a crossover here with ethics in cyber security, as autonomy requires the ability for individuals to have access to their data and systems [ 14 ]. Cyber security can prevent unauthorised access to our data but should also give some control over user privacy [ 14 ].

Generative AI provides a distinct ethical consideration regarding autonomy. Data scraping for training AI models takes away the autonomy of individuals to choose to have their data used, possibly infringing on privacy and intellectual property rights. One such example is an artist having their work used to train a model which can subsequently generate new simulated works matching their unique style [ 64 ]. The nature of generative AI models means that once data has been used in its training, there is no option to ‘take-it-back’ or withdraw consent later without deleting the model and starting from a new training set. As we will see when we look at risk factors of generative AI, this could leave individual data exposed to malicious actors with little in the way of protection.

Businesses incorporating generative AI must consider how the data used to their model was trained or sourced. If it is based on customer data for example, should those customers need to give specific informed consent for their data to be used in AI training?

4.4 Justice

There are many conceptions of justice, most of which revolve around promoting fairness and equality. It can also refer to the distribution of benefits and harms, considering their impacts on the least advantaged groups [ 14 ].

Justice with regard to AI means acting to eliminate unfair discrimination, create shared benefits, and prevent the undermining of social structures [ 59 ]. AI development, while bringing many opportunities for innovation, also has the risk of maintaining social inequalities rather than improving them. A feature of LLMs is their propensity to maintain stereotypes and bias [ 65 ]. Businesses implementing AI or generative AI must consider the wider social or justice implications of such technology.

Justice in cyber security should also consider the protection of property, data, and privacy rights [ 14 ]. As much as control over digital privacy is a matter of preserving autonomy , it is also a matter of justice and procedural fairness. Those who are affected by a technology should have a fair opportunity to challenge it. Some questions which will soon come to the fore regarding generative AI are around whether customers have a capability to opt out of their data being used to train AI models. If their data is exposed in a generative AI hack, who is responsible? What legal avenues could they pursue? This will be a matter for law and policy to decide, however, no business will want to be known as the first to have a data breach due to a generative AI attack.

4.5 Explicability

As a feature of procedural fairness, Floridi et al. [ 59 ] point out that there is a need to be able to understand and hold to account decision making in AI, considering both explicability and accountability. “Explicability” can broadly be considered as an answer to the question “how does it work?”, while “accountability” an answer to “who is responsible for the way it works?” [ 59 ]. As with autonomy, there are ethical issues around transparency and accountability.

Formosa et al. [ 14 ] point out that explicability in cyber security also includes procedures for holding people and organisations accountable for failures. The rapid incorporation of AI technologies into the workplace and society broadly, has also led to a rush of people trying to understand the capabilities and limitations of these technologies. Implementing an AI solution into business should also come with relevant training as it should be clear who is accountable and responsible for its use. If a company uses a third party to create a generative AI model, that somehow becomes a threat or leaks valuable information, whose responsibility is it? The company implementing it, the user who utilised it for that task, or the one designing and training the model?

5 Business implementations of AI and large language models – buying into the hype

While some might see cyber security as a technical field meant only for the protection of systems and networks, ultimately the aim of the cyber security professional is to protect the well-being of the public at large [ 13 ]. As an ever-increasing amount of data is gathered and stored about us, there is also an increasing obligation for companies to keep that information secure. The spate of large-scale hacks where private and sensitive information has been leaked has sparked calls for greater responsibility to be taken by companies who handle and store such data [ 66 ]. The implementation of generative AI expands the threat horizon. As companies rush to implement AI, they also have an obligation to understand and work to minimise the threats and subsequent harms this technology could bring.

To many, the main threat AI tools present lie in their ability to replace workers or eliminate traditional human-centred roles. To others, replacing humans with AI tools removes flexibility and responsiveness and takes out the humanity of traditional, customer-oriented services. However, to early adopters, AI is seen as a panacea of efficiency and effectiveness, removing the barriers to improving customer service and business while expanding business opportunities into previously unknown areas. To these business owners, AI tools work 24/7, do not ask for time off, can be modified at will, and do not suffer from the traditional personal and professional challenges of human employees. Where AI tools have not replaced human employees, AI tools are seen as enhancements to human-centric jobs and can improve their performance and responsiveness significantly.

However, with the adoption of early generative AI tools come higher error rates and challenges in fine tuning them to support traditional business models. A lack of understanding of how proprietary company data, once fed into an LLM, exposes the company to potential IP issues. Further, as many users have discovered, generative AI output is only as good as the data used to train the model. Generative AI results have often yielded biased, racist, and often incorrect information owing to ineffectual model tuning, limited cross validation process and operationalisation. Therefore, owing to a lack of critical thinking and analysis skills in the corporate sector may result in both poor performance and embarrassing results.

While long term expectations are that AI tools will undoubtedly result in business efficiencies, reduced labour costs, and the ability to increase the number of customers served, the short-term prognosis for their use has been mixed. Positively, the advent and adoption of AI tools has meant the creation of new job positions such as prompt engineers, Machine Learning trainers and validators, AI deployment specialists, and coders. We would also expect that new positions as AI ethicists and data control and evaluation specialists would also be a part of the new technology explosion.

5.1 The cyber-threat of AI adoption

The mass adoption of generative AI will amplify existing cyber and information security threats bringing new areas of concern. In the cyber security field, hackers and cyber criminals have also adopted AI to support hacking, online scams, and phishing emails [ 56 ]. AI serves as a force multiplier while enhancing the skills of previously mediocre cyber criminals. Despite numerous controls and safety measures, entire websites are devoted to circumventing these controls and jailbreaking existing tools. In some cases, Darkweb hackers now offer tailored AI tools to support online criminal enterprises [ 67 ]. Hackers have also traded in stolen ChatGPT login credentials, creating targets for information theft as ChatGPT profiles store a history of queries and responses [ 68 ].

Owing to its rapid deployment and universal adoption throughout the public and private sectors, there is a greater risk that generative AI could be ‘hacked’ or otherwise misappropriated. While most software applications are traditionally extensively evaluated for security and vulnerabilities, this has been lacking in generative AI. In traditional software development models we can trace a “bug” back to its cause, even if that cause is a complex interrelation with other programs, libraries services or even time itself, but generative AI adds another dimension since it’s based on such large data sets, The creative use of seemingly innocuous applications such as generative AI by criminals and adversarial nation states often results in technology surprise and creates new lines of exploitation. Whereas policy and regulatory controls are often lacking with these new technologies, their adoption without due consideration places organisations at risk. This exacerbates the potential risk with the rapid implementation of AI in workplaces, without sufficient thought or oversight.

6 Cyber security risk factors for generative AI and large language models

The following threats have been identified by cyber security researchers, and as of yet have not been known to be maliciously exploited. Even though some of these threats remain speculative in their possibility, they give reason to consider the safety of generative AI models.

6.1 Data poisoning

Firstly, there is a risk that bad actors could manipulate training data which is used to create generative AI models like LLMs. LLMs are trained on data sets scraped from across the internet, a malicious actor could store altered or ‘poisoned’ information waiting for that model to scrape the training data as it is updated [ 54 ]. This poisoned data would then surface in responses given by the model. This is especially true with the recent creation by OpenAI of personal GPTs [ 69 ]. Personal GPTs can be created by anyone to operate alongside of OpenAI’s ChatGPT and may be narrowly focused on one field or topic area. These GPT models are trained and validated the same way as other GPTs but with a narrowly defined set of input data. If the data is skewed or biased, the resulting output will reflect the ingested data. Not only could this lead to incorrect or skewed data, but it could also be used to support extremist viewpoints or to exploit vulnerable user groups.

Historically, data seeding has been used to influence Internet users through data propagation and search engine optimisation [ 70 ]. This strategy has now evolved to influence AI LLMs by prepopulating websites, social media and databases with information that data training will ingest and incorporate into AI results. A recent report by Google outlined an example where an attacker might want to influence public sentiment about a politician, so that whenever the model is queried about that politician it gives a positive response [ 54 ]. The researchers pointed out that is possible for an attacker to buy expired domains that used to have content about a politician, modifying it to be more positive [ 54 ]. The follow-on effect being that an LLM which scraped those sites would proceed to give those favourable results when asked. Further research indicated that an attacker only needs to control 0.01% of a dataset to poison it, which could be done for a cost of just US$60 [ 34 ]. If this is correct for all datasets, then there is a low barrier for someone able to poison any dataset and undermine the reliability of the subsequent model.

While influence operations have historically been the purview of governments, the integration of AI tools used by the masses makes disinformation campaigns and influence operations available to anyone. As we’ve seen recently, companies training AI have run afoul of copyright claims, but their tool flexibility and ease of access may also violate the CIA triad identified by Schatz et al. [ 19 ]. The use of autonomous tools designed to respond to human interrogatories with false, private or biased information is not generally addressed within our traditional view of cyber security. Unless we treat AI as a potential bad actor, those actions, controlled by complex rulesets and instigated by prompt engineers, may simply be viewed as anomalous and not worthy of consideration as a separate entity within our definition of cyber security.

Others have similarly argued that disinformation meets the conditions to be considered a cyber security risk due to the threat to business reputation, calling into question the integrity of data, and the psychological threat to individuals due to distrust [ 71 ]. Whether or not disinformation is directly an issue of cyber security, it has nonetheless been seen as a business risk to consider, due to the potential of influencing investment decisions or causing supply chain disruptions [ 72 , 73 ].

OpenAI specifically addresses the potential misuse of language models for disinformation campaigns by various actors including “ propagandists for hire ” [ 74 ]. Potential solutions to mitigate the impact of propaganda and disinformation campaigns include improved fact-sensitive models, tagging information for easier tracking, government control over data collection and AI hardware.

6.2 Training data extraction

Early test attacks on GTP-2 showed that it was possible for adversaries to extract specific examples of training data just by querying large language models [ 3 ]. The test showed the possibility of extracting exact words and phrases used in the training of the model, alarmingly this included public personally identifiable information such as names, phone numbers and email addresses [ 3 ]. This information only needed to appear once in the training data. In February 2023, a Harvard University student used a ‘prompt injection’ attack on Bing chat to gain access to a document otherwise hidden to users [ 75 ]. This could be a risk as many companies are training their own internal LLMs. A company which is training its own LLM with proprietary information could run the risk of having sensitive information exposed through such an attack.

6.3 Backdooring the model

More alarmingly, is the risk for indirect prompt injection [ 6 ]. In this case attackers can strategically inject prompts into training data, which can then allow attackers to indirectly exploit or completely take control of a system, without the need to access the model itself [ 6 ]. Similar to the example of data poisoning, a training data set could include malicious content that, instead of providing misinformation, could provide specific coded instructions for the model to follow.

Google researchers have pointed out that a model could be built with hidden outputs when a specific “trigger” is activated [ 54 ]. This code could, for example, trigger a download of malicious code onto the user’s device or control certain outputs of the model, changing the response or action the model takes. The researchers give the example of an attacker uploading a new kind of AI image classification tool to GitHub. While the program appears to run smoothly, the attacker could have stored malicious code to download malware on a device after a certain trigger is activated [ 54 ].

These are just some of the examples of ways in which malicious actors might be able to manipulate and otherwise affect the reliability of AI models.

6.4 Adversarial prompting

LLMs are generally built with safeguards around generating contents that are harmful and misaligned with common moral and ethical standards. However, several researchers have demonstrated that using specific or augmented prompts can bypass the safety measures and trick these models into providing harmful content. Typically referred to as “jailbreaking,” there are numerous online resources that provide instruction to users on developing prompts that will bypass the controls of the AI engine [ 76 ]. A jailbreak prompt instructs the AI engine to ignore any previous coded instructions, emulate another, less restrictive engine, or incorporate specific attributes to respond to the user’s instructions. An example that has been used previously by users is to invoke the Do Anything Now (DAN) mode in ChatGPT. While in DAN mode, ChatGPT is more responsive to user requests that potentially violate its rules.

7 Ethical implications of generative AI risk

We now turn to the ethical implications for the risks mentioned in Sect. 6. As some of the examples in Sect. 6 have shown there are multiple attacks which AI models could be vulnerable to. It is important that businesses who are planning to implement such tools within their organisation recognise and be alert to the potential harm that could come from such use. We will use the ethical principles for cyber security outlined in Sect. 4, to show what ethical concerns businesses must consider in light of the cyber security risk of generative AI models.

These threats outlined in Sect. 6 are enabled or exacerbated in two ways, by users either (a) over-relying on the output of an AI program or (b) over-trusting what information they give over to it. Firstly, by over-relying on the output of a generative AI model, employees risk making potentially harmful decisions or exposing systems to malware through phishing scam attacks. Secondly, by over-trusting the security of training data or the information put into an LLM model, there is the increased risk for data leak or theft.

7.1 Overreliance

There is evidence to suggest that people are susceptible to overreliance on AI decision making, even when it is detrimental to their work [ 77 , 78 ]. Instead of combining critical thinking and their own insights into a problem along with an AI model, people frequently over-rely on the AI even if they would have made a better choice on their own [ 77 ]. This is also known as ‘automation bias’. Pilots have been shown to place trust in incorrect automated processes, even if they would not have done so without automated recommendations [ 79 , 80 ]. Pilots must go through special training to overcome these types of automation bias. When generative AI solutions are implemented in business, there must be a consideration of what training will be sufficient to combat overreliance or automation bias.

One solution proposed to combat overreliance has been explainable AI (XAI) where a system gives reasons for its decision. The idea being that if a system can give people an explanation for how it came to a decision, they might be more easily be able to spot errors, reducing overreliance. However, it is debatable whether explainable AI does reduce overreliance and more research is being done on what circumstances explainable AI could be effective [ 78 ].

It is widely recognised that generative AI systems have the capacity to hallucinate, casting doubt on “the whole information environment” [ 53 ]. Beyond hallucinations, as the above analysis of cyber threats show, the capacity for malicious actors to purposely poison output from such models to give incorrect information gives extra cause for concern. There is a risk that hackers could change the data driving a company’s AI model, potentially influencing business decisions with targeted manipulation or misinformation [ 11 ].

In line with the principle of beneficence, ethical implementation of generative AI in business should be of benefit to employees, promote well-being and make the workplace better overall. Guardrails should be in place to ensure that its implementation is not providing more avenues for employees to make mistakes, which could potentially lead to cyber security risks.

The introduction of generative AI must also be done without risking increasing threats or harms to business or other stakeholders. Non-maleficence warns against the negative consequences of overusing or misusing AI technologies [ 59 ]. The adoption of generative AI within a company should be done while recognising the increased risk of a cyber security incident. For example, over-relying on generative AI in coding can serve as a more immediate cyber security threat, as past versions of GitHub’s Copilot were found to recommend insecure and vulnerable code to developers [ 81 ]. However, few companies are prioritising protection against the cyber security risk of generative AI [ 11 ].

The level of overreliance on the system as a source of truth, where users are not trained or used to questioning its output can increase the threat of cyber security breaches and subsequent harm. Overreliance could also be exploited by indirect prompt injection, with researchers demonstrating the possibility for a ‘hacked’ LLM to elicit information from a user [ 6 ]. By injecting instructions into an LLM, researchers were able to have the model ask users questions, enabling them to gain information such as the user’s real name [ 6 ]. If workers over-rely on a generative AI system, they might give over such information in a conversation without thinking of it as being a risk.

The issue of AI literacy, education and equality must be emphasised when integrating generative AI. Once trust and ubiquity of generative AI in business has been built, businesses should consider whether there will be a threat of delegating too much to machines, thereby threatening the autonomy of workers. Moreover, what impact could this have to erode the capacity of workers to make choices, especially in significant decision making? Over time, and once AI models become engrained in the operations of a workplace, employee capacity to judge the lines between what the AI can and cannot do might become blurred. For example, is a new staff member, going to understand when to rely on an AI decision and when not to? This will also be a challenge as there is evidence that LLMs change their behaviour over time [ 82 ].

We earlier defined justice as it relates to AI as promoting fairness, equality, and shared benefits. As a matter of justice, the displacement of jobs is a recognised threat of AI integration, threatening fairness and equality [ 46 ]. Generative AI can be used in internal business process such as human resource management (HRM) for training and development initiatives, resource allocation and employee engagement [ 83 ]. But HRM decisions also have an impact on individuals, such as who gets hired or fired, who gets better appraisals, or who is put on preferred projects [ 84 ]. These type of decisions all have psychological impacts on employees [ 85 ]. If generative AI is used in the process of evaluating staff performance it must be done so in light of distributive justice (everyone is treated the same way by the system) and procedural justice (the processes employed to reach a decision are transparent) [ 84 , 86 ]. This last point concerns the principle of explicability . When implementing a generative AI system, its use and capabilities should be explainable to all users. Management and employees should know why certain systems are used, how they make their decisions and on what information in order to reduce possible overreliance.

7.2 Over-trust

The second factor we identify is what we term as over-trust in generative AI systems. This refers to the degree to which users trust a model with sensitive information, or trust that it is safe and secure. Studies have found that a proportion of employees have pasted sensitive information into ChatGPT [ 87 ]. Companies such as Samsung moved to ban employees using ChatGPT as a result of company proprietary material being placed into the program [ 9 ]. There is also increasing trust placed in third-party AI providers, without always a consideration of the cyber security risks [ 12 ].

Some companies have moved to create their own in-house AI models trained on company data and information to assist staff with queries. BloombergGPT, for example, an LLM that was purpose built from the scratch for finance by Bloomberg [ 88 ]. The training and use of such a model brings its own security challenges, as we have seen such models are susceptible to data extraction attacks [ 3 ]. Bloomberg, for their part, chose not to release their model citing security concerns of a model trained on so much company data being potentially exposed through nefarious means increasing risk for harm [ 88 ]. Training such a model is cost intensive and not something which is an option for many businesses.

Large companies such as Morgan Stanley are using cloud-based systems only accessible to its employees. While some argue a leak of confidential or private information “should not be a problem” [ 89 ] this thinking ignores the risk of internal threats and of actors trying to use attacks such as training data extraction. It also ignores the risk of the model being otherwise leaked, as happened with Meta’s AI language model LLaMA [ 90 ]. There is also the risk of accidental data leaks, such as the recent 38 TB of data accidentally exposed by Microsoft AI researchers [ 8 ].

Companies such as Salesforce have touted promises of plugging the AI “trust gap”, promoting services to protect company information while using AI tools, a package which will reportedly cost businesses $360,000 per year to implement [ 91 ].

With companies implementing domain specific LLMs, in an unregulated market, ethical considerations should still be implemented to protect the security of data. By applying the ethical principles from Sect. 4, we can see how over-trust in a new and untested technology presents ethical issues for companies.

In terms of beneficence, there are many positive benefits for the training of generative AI and large language models on proprietary content or knowledge [ 89 ]. This can be useful in assisting customer-facing employees find information about company policy, solving customer problems, or keeping employee knowledge when they leave the organisation [ 89 ]. In implementing such a strategy, companies and staff must have best practises in mind, and continually revise its use. Morgan Stanley reportedly used 1,000 financial managers to fine tune its model for safety and use [ 92 ]. However, this kind of resource intensive safeguard is not something that is practical for all businesses.

By trusting generative AI systems to store and process data, organisations could also be exposing themselves to added security threats. Non-maleficence (“do no harm”) in this case does not just mean intentional harm, but also means preventing accidental harm or the harm from the “unpredicted behaviour of machines” [ 59 ]. Placing data or sensitive information into generative AI models, could increase the threat of infringing upon personal privacy by increasing a company’s exposure to cyber-risk. Generative AI models can be susceptible to attacks such as prompt injection attacks or data extraction attacks, both of which have the potential to leak sensitive data [ 6 ]. If we consider that IBM estimates that only 24% of generative AI projects will include a cyber security component within the next 6 months [ 11 ], then this rush to adopt AI is leading to users being exposed to unnecessary consequences.

A new question raised by generative AI is what autonomy do customers have over their information being stored or used in a model which potentially has flaws in security? If generative AI programs become widespread and ubiquitous in business, should customers have to give their consent for their information to be either (a) be used in the training set of a model; or (b) to be inputted into the finished model?

Regulations about the business use of these models is on the horizon, but there are many questions still to be considered. If users or customers have a right for their data to be erased from a database, such as under the rules of the GDPR, similar protections cannot be offered once a model has been trained a person’s data. There is also no option to later withdraw consent once a model has been trained. Mechanisms and best practice around the use of customer information, which could threaten autonomy, must be taken into consideration. The ethical AI guidelines Floridi et al. [ 59 ] point out that the autonomy of humans should be promoted, while also limiting the autonomy of machines, and making them intrinsically reversable. The problem with LLMs is that they are lacking in the capacity to be reversable.

Justice in both AI and cyber security encompasses the protection of rights, in particular the right to privacy over data. In using and training models with data taken from users, for example, there must be a consideration for the protection of this data. The susceptibility of models to attacks can include the threat of information or data theft [ 6 ].

Justice can also refer to recourse available when something goes wrong with AI systems or in cyber security. As more companies use LLMs the greater the risk becomes of data being leaked. Without clear guidelines or regulation in place, what recourse do users have if their data is used in a training model and then subsequently exposed? If a company is using a third-party AI provider, is it clear where the responsibility for any failures lies?

A follow on from the ethical considerations of justice, is the principle of explicability. With the rapid implementation of generative AI, are customers being informed whether their data is being used to train new company models? Large companies such as Facebook, Amazon and X (formerly Twitter) all have plans to train LLMs using user data [ 93 ]. Amazon plans to train its LLM using voice data from Alexa conversations [ 93 ]. Do customers need to opt-in to their data being used to train generative AI models? If their data is exposed in a generative AI hack, who is responsible? What legal avenues could they pursue? Explicability entails who is made accountable for failures in cyber security, in the result of a breach due to generative AI, do companies know who would be at fault or where the responsibility lies?

8 Ethical implementation of generative AI

The above analysis shows the many ethical questions which are raised by thinking about cyber security and generative AI for business. We argue that cyber security needs to be an ethical consideration for businesses implementing generative AI. As such, we offer five key recommendations which companies can adopt to ensure that the security risk of using AI models is limited.

A secure and ethical AI model design.

When designing an AI model, companies should ensure that their designs take into consideration the principles such as beneficence and non-maleficence. This means considering the potential harms and security risks which could be exposed through the model. Each design should also include non-discriminatory principles to avoid biases and unexpected outcomes from the AI models. Following the principle of explicability, companies should ensure their AI training is easily explainable and transparent in its design.

A trusted and fair data collection process.

Companies need to ensure data collected is accurate, fair, representative, and legally sourced. As the principle of autonomy demonstrates, there should be considerations of how much users can have a say about how their data is used in the training of a model. Companies should consider whether they will need to have an opt-in or opt-out systems to protect the privacy of users or customers.

A secure data storage.

Companies will need to adhere to the privacy best practices for all the data stored, whether it is training data or input data from users. This should also be done while considering the risk of leaks through hacks such as training data extraction. With regulation of generative AI on the horizon, companies must now prepare by putting in place their own policies over what data is used, while considering the risk that this data could be exposed. This takes into consideration the principle of justice, in the prevention of possible data leaks.

Ethical AI model retraining and maintenance.

To maintain model currency and accuracy, AI models require retraining from time to time. Companies need to perform sufficient checks and tests after retraining the AI model and updating the generative AI applications to ensure it maintains its ethical standards and accuracy. In terms of cyber security, this also means constant monitoring for signs of influence, malware or the AI focused attacks as outlined in this paper. New defence training and policies will be needed to monitor for these threats.

Upskilling, training staff and managing staff.

One of the biggest pain points for business is upskilling and training staff. When implementing a strategy with generative AI, companies should consider what benefit the AI is bringing, while also considering the human impact this will have on staff. If staff are being asked to work with, train or implement models, they might be concerned that they will soon be replaced by these models. Upskilling and training will also be essential to mitigate the potential threats from overreliance and over-trust in new generative AI models.

9 Conclusion

We have seen that implementation of generative AI comes with considerable cyber security risk for businesses. When rushing to implement generative AI and not fall behind others in industry, companies are also increasing the risk for cyber security breaches. While there is a great momentum toward incorporating generative AI, there also needs to be a consideration of the ethical responsibility toward the protection of data and prevention against threats.

A major risk with the rush to market of generative AI is its adoption by workers without guidance or understanding of how various generative AI tools are produced, managed or of the risks they pose. This lack of understanding can leave companies open to cyber security threats. We point out two ways in which this can happen: overreliance and over-trust in generative AI systems. While these two are related, each offers distinct risks and ethical challenges.

The ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, justice and explicability are useful lenses through which business can view their obligations when planning to implement data-safe and cyber-secure generative AI solutions.

The rapid adoption of generative AI seems to be moving faster than the industry’s understanding of the technology and its inherent ethical and cyber security risks. Companies will need to manage the risk from new vulnerabilities due to generative AI, requiring new forms of governance and regulatory frameworks. Employee training, procedures and managed implementation are an ethical responsibility to protect workers, sensitive company information and the public. Companies now have the opportunity to prevent expensive and unnecessary consequences of generative AI, by addressing the ethical and cyber security threats and investing in data protection measures.

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Humphreys, D., Koay, A., Desmond, D. et al. AI hype as a cyber security risk: the moral responsibility of implementing generative AI in business. AI Ethics (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43681-024-00443-4

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Essay on Cyber Security

Students are often asked to write an essay on Cyber Security in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Cyber Security

Understanding cyber security.

Cyber security is about protecting computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from digital attacks. It’s a critical area as our daily life, economic vitality, and national security rely on a stable, safe, and resilient cyberspace.

The Importance of Cyber Security

Cyber security is important because it helps protect sensitive information, like our personal data and banking details, from being stolen by hackers. It also safeguards against harmful viruses that can damage our devices.

Types of Cyber Threats

Common threats include malware, phishing, and ransomware. Malware is harmful software, phishing tricks people into revealing sensitive information, and ransomware locks users out until they pay a ransom.

Cyber Security Practices

Good practices include using strong passwords, regularly updating software, and not clicking on suspicious links. These can help protect us from cyber threats.

Also check:

  • Paragraph on Cyber Security
  • Speech on Cyber Security

250 Words Essay on Cyber Security

Introduction to cyber security.

Cybersecurity, a term that has gained paramount importance in the digital age, refers to the practice of protecting internet-connected systems, including hardware, software, and data, from digital attacks. Its significance is amplified by the increasing reliance on technology, which, while offering numerous benefits, also opens up new avenues for potential threats.

The digital landscape is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it facilitates communication, commerce, and innovation. On the other, it provides a fertile ground for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity thus becomes crucial in safeguarding sensitive information, preventing unauthorized access, and maintaining system integrity.

Challenges in Cyber Security

However, the complexity and sophistication of cyber threats are growing at an alarming pace. Cybercriminals are using advanced techniques, such as AI and machine learning, to bypass traditional security measures. This necessitates the development of more robust, adaptive cybersecurity strategies.

The Future of Cyber Security

The future of cybersecurity lies in proactive defense mechanisms. By leveraging technologies like AI, predictive analytics, and blockchain, we can anticipate and neutralize threats before they cause harm. Furthermore, fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness is equally important to empower individuals and organizations against cyber threats.

In conclusion, cybersecurity is a vital aspect of our digital existence. Its importance, challenges, and future prospects underline the need for continuous research, development, and education in this field. As the digital landscape evolves, so too must our approach to cybersecurity.

500 Words Essay on Cyber Security

Cyber security, also known as information technology security, focuses on protecting computers, networks, programs, and data from unintended or unauthorized access, damage, or destruction. In the digital era, the importance of cyber security is growing exponentially due to the increasing reliance on computer systems, the internet, and wireless network standards such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and due to the growth of smart devices like smartphones and televisions.

The significance of robust cyber security measures cannot be understated. Cyber attacks can lead to serious consequences like identity theft, extortion attempts, deletion of important data, and even the disruption of normal business operations. In more extreme cases, they can lead to the compromise of national security. Hence, cyber security is not just a concern for businesses or governments, but it is a potential threat to all internet users.

Cyber threats can be broadly divided into three categories: Cybercrime includes single actors or groups targeting systems for financial gain or to cause disruption; Cyber-attack often involves politically motivated information gathering; and Cyberterrorism is intended to undermine electronic systems to cause panic or fear. Examples of these threats are malware, phishing, ransomware, and social engineering.

Cyber Security Measures

In response to these threats, several cyber security measures are being employed. These include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, anti-virus software, and encryption. Furthermore, organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of information assurance, where data integrity, confidentiality, and availability are assured.

As technology evolves, so does the complexity and sophistication of cyber threats. Hence, the future of cyber security lies in constant evolution and adaptation. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are becoming integral in combating cyber threats. These technologies can learn and adapt to new threats, making them more efficient than traditional security measures.

In conclusion, cyber security is a crucial aspect of our digital lives, and its importance will only increase with time. To ensure a secure digital environment, individuals, organizations, and governments must understand the potential threats and employ robust security measures to counter them. The future of cyber security is promising, with the advent of AI and ML, but the road ahead is challenging, requiring constant vigilance and adaptation to new threats.

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What is Cyber Security?

essay on cyber safety and security

Cyber security is the practice of defending computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks. It's also known as information technology security or electronic information security. The term applies in a variety of contexts, from business to mobile computing, and can be divided into a few common categories.

·          Network security is the practice of securing a computer network from intruders, whether targeted attackers or opportunistic malware.

·          Application security focuses on keeping software and devices free of threats. A compromised application could provide access to the data its designed to protect. Successful security begins in the design stage, well before a program or device is deployed.

·          Information security protects the integrity and privacy of data, both in storage and in transit.

·          Operational security includes the processes and decisions for handling and protecting data assets. The permissions users have when accessing a network and the procedures that determine how and where data may be stored or shared all fall under this umbrella.

·          Disaster recovery and business continuity define how an organization responds to a cyber-security incident or any other event that causes the loss of operations or data. Disaster recovery policies dictate how the organization restores its operations and information to return to the same operating capacity as before the event. Business continuity is the plan the organization falls back on while trying to operate without certain resources.

·          End-user education addresses the most unpredictable cyber-security factor: people. Anyone can accidentally introduce a virus to an otherwise secure system by failing to follow good security practices. Teaching users to delete suspicious email attachments, not plug in unidentified USB drives, and various other important lessons is vital for the security of any organization.

essay on cyber safety and security

The scale of the cyber threat

The global cyber threat continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with a rising number of data breaches each year. A report by RiskBased Security revealed that a shocking 7.9 billion records have been exposed by data breaches in the first nine months of 2019 alone. This figure is more than double (112%) the number of records exposed in the same period in 2018.

Medical services, retailers and public entities experienced the most breaches, with malicious criminals responsible for most incidents. Some of these sectors are more appealing to cybercriminals because they collect financial and medical data, but all businesses that use networks can be targeted for customer data, corporate espionage, or customer attacks.

With the scale of the cyber threat set to continue to rise, global spending on cybersecurity solutions is naturally increasing. Gartner predicts cybersecurity spending will reach $188.3 billion in 2023 and surpass $260 billion globally by 2026. Governments across the globe have responded to the rising cyber threat with guidance to help organizations implement effective cyber-security practices.

In the U.S., the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has created a cyber-security framework . To combat the proliferation of malicious code and aid in early detection, the framework recommends continuous, real-time monitoring of all electronic resources.

The importance of system monitoring is echoed in the “ 10 steps to cyber security ”, guidance provided by the U.K. government’s National Cyber Security Centre. In Australia, The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) regularly publishes guidance on how organizations can counter the latest cyber-security threats. 

Types of cyber threats

The threats countered by cyber-security are three-fold:

1. Cybercrime includes single actors or groups targeting systems for financial gain or to cause disruption.

2. Cyber-attack often involves politically motivated information gathering.

3. Cyberterrorism is intended to undermine electronic systems to cause panic or fear.

So, how do malicious actors gain control of computer systems? Here are some common methods used to threaten cyber-security:

Malware means malicious software. One of the most common cyber threats, malware is software that a cybercriminal or hacker has created to disrupt or damage a legitimate user’s computer. Often spread via an unsolicited email attachment or legitimate-looking download, malware may be used by cybercriminals to make money or in politically motivated cyber-attacks.

There are a number of different types of malware, including:

·          Virus: A self-replicating program that attaches itself to clean file and spreads throughout a computer system, infecting files with malicious code.

·          Trojans :  A type of malware that is disguised as legitimate software. Cybercriminals trick users into uploading Trojans onto their computer where they cause damage or collect data.

·          Spyware: A program that secretly records what a user does, so that cybercriminals can make use of this information. For example, spyware could capture credit card details.

·          Ransomware: Malware which locks down a user’s files and data, with the threat of erasing it unless a ransom is paid.

·          Adware: Advertising software which can be used to spread malware.

·          Botnets: Networks of malware infected computers which cybercriminals use to perform tasks online without the user’s permission.

SQL injection

An SQL (structured language query) injection is a type of cyber-attack used to take control of and steal data from a database. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in data-driven applications to insert malicious code into a databased via a malicious SQL statement. This gives them access to the sensitive information contained in the database.

Phishing is when cybercriminals target victims with emails that appear to be from a legitimate company asking for sensitive information. Phishing attacks are often used to dupe people into handing over credit card data and other personal information.

Man-in-the-middle attack

A man-in-the-middle attack is a type of cyber threat where a cybercriminal intercepts communication between two individuals in order to steal data. For example, on an unsecure WiFi network, an attacker could intercept data being passed from the victim’s device and the network.

Denial-of-service attack

A denial-of-service attack is where cybercriminals prevent a computer system from fulfilling legitimate requests by overwhelming the networks and servers with traffic. This renders the system unusable, preventing an organization from carrying out vital functions.

Latest cyber threats

What are the latest cyber threats that individuals and organizations need to guard against? Here are some of the most recent cyber threats that the U.K., U.S., and Australian governments have reported on.

Dridex malware

In December 2019, the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) charged the leader of an organized cyber-criminal group for their part in a global Dridex malware attack . This malicious campaign affected the public, government, infrastructure and business worldwide.

Dridex is a financial trojan with a range of capabilities. Affecting victims since 2014, it infects computers though phishing emails or existing malware. Capable of stealing passwords, banking details and personal data which can be used in fraudulent transactions, it has caused massive financial losses amounting to hundreds of millions.

In response to the Dridex attacks, the U.K.’s National Cyber Security Centre advises the public to “ensure devices are patched, anti-virus is turned on and up to date and files are backed up”.

Romance scams

In February 2020, the FBI warned U.S. citizens to be aware of confidence fraud that cybercriminals commit using dating sites, chat rooms and apps. Perpetrators take advantage of people seeking new partners, duping victims into giving away personal data.

The FBI reports that romance cyber threats affected 114 victims in New Mexico in 2019, with financial losses amounting to $1.6 million.

Emotet malware

In late 2019, The Australian Cyber Security Centre warned national organizations about a widespread global cyber threat from Emotet malware.

Emotet is a sophisticated trojan that can steal data and also load other malware. Emotet thrives on unsophisticated password: a reminder of the importance of creating a secure password to guard against cyber threats.

End-user protection

End-user protection or endpoint security is a crucial aspect of cyber security. After all, it is often an individual (the end-user) who accidentally uploads malware or another form of cyber threat to their desktop, laptop or mobile device.

So, how do cyber-security measures protect end users and systems? First, cyber-security relies on cryptographic protocols to encrypt emails, files, and other critical data. This not only protects information in transit, but also guards against loss or theft.

In addition, end-user security software scans computers for pieces of malicious code, quarantines this code, and then removes it from the machine. Security programs can even detect and remove malicious code hidden in Master Boot Record (MBR) and are designed to encrypt or wipe data from computer’s hard drive.

Electronic security protocols also focus on real-time malware detection . Many use heuristic and behavioral analysis to monitor the behavior of a program and its code to defend against viruses or Trojans that change their shape with each execution (polymorphic and metamorphic malware). Security programs can confine potentially malicious programs to a virtual bubble separate from a user's network to analyze their behavior and learn how to better detect new infections.

Security programs continue to evolve new defenses as cyber-security professionals identify new threats and new ways to combat them. To make the most of end-user security software, employees need to be educated about how to use it. Crucially, keeping it running and updating it frequently ensures that it can protect users against the latest cyber threats.

Cyber safety tips - protect yourself against cyberattacks

 How can businesses and individuals guard against cyber threats? Here are our top cyber safety tips:

1.       Update your software and operating system: This means you benefit from the latest security patches.

2.       Use anti-virus software: Security solutions like Kaspersky Total Security will detect and removes threats. Keep your software updated for the best level of protection.

3.       Use strong passwords: Ensure your passwords are not easily guessable.

4.       Do not open email attachments from unknown senders: These could be infected with malware.

5.       Do not click on links in emails from unknown senders or unfamiliar websites: This is a common way that malware is spread.

6.       Avoid using unsecure WiFi networks in public places: Unsecure networks leave you vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks.

Kaspersky Endpoint Security received three  AV-TEST awards for the best performance, protection, and usability for a corporate endpoint security product in 2021 . In all tests Kaspersky Endpoint Security showed outstanding performance, protection, and usability for businesses.

Related Articles:

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Cyber Security Technologies Evaluation Essay

Introduction, emerging technologies.

Advanced cyber attacks that target both public and private sectors at the international level have provoked an increase in research and funding for the establishment of novel cyber security technologies.

Government and private institutions are investing in technologies that dynamically appraise networks through real-time and remote agent forensic investigations. Besides, organizations are coming up with cyber security technologies like moving target defense, which prevent hackers from spotting attack surface of a network.

The moving target defense allows a network to alter its variables dynamically, therefore, making it hard for hackers to predict or spot attack surface. Other emerging cyber security technologies include tailored trustworthy spaces and searchable encryption.

The responsibility to guard public and private assets on the state and global level should not fall exclusively on the government. Public and private institutions should work with the government to establish network security measures.

The federal government has taken an active role in curbing cyber crimes by investing in research programs aimed at creating awareness of possible threats and how to address them. Currently, the federal government is trying to fine-tune existing cyber security technologies and to develop novel ones to safeguard networks from emerging threats.

The federal government is working to ensure that private and public institutions install novel cyber security technologies in their networks as a way to boost state economy and curb cyber attacks.

Recent events like the Georgian incursion and the revelation that hackers have stolen billions of dollars from banks globally have created an indulgence that cyber security does not only involve protecting one’s computer. It has devastating repercussions to state defense and economic interests.

For this reason, cyber security is one of the challenges facing contemporary digital community. Today, majority of cyber work is not automated, and hence, it is done by people (Garfinkel, 2014). Besides, many countries do not have qualified cyber experts. Thus, it is difficult for countries to rely on people bestowed the duty to control cyber attacks.

In addition, “The one consistent theme is that cyber defenses commonly used today are simply not effective against most forms of advanced cyber attacks” (Garfinkel, 2014, p. 568). Currently, state and private institutions are collaborating to plan and create cyber security technologies that aid in the fight against cyber crimes.

The technologies are aimed at detecting and combating any authorized intrusion into both government and private corporations’ networks.

Emerging cyber threats and susceptibilities have “Created challenges amounting to financial damages to governments and businesses” (Speicher, 2014, p. 65). Present digitally linked planet offers immense benefits to countries.

Public and private corporations transmit data across the globe within a short period enhancing their efficiency and productivity. Nevertheless, the digital platform is open to cyber attacks subjecting companies to insecurity. Cases of advanced persistent threats (APTs) among the state and key private organizations are rampant across the globe.

Moreover, hackers are targeting modern technologies like Big Data, Smart Grid, and High-End Computing. Another budding trend in cyber attacks is focusing on data found on social networks. Many people use social networks to share confidential information.

However, they do not know that social networks are prone to cyber attacks. Hackers have capitalized on people’s ignorance to perpetrate cyber crimes (Speicher, 2014). Social networks like LinkedIn have subjected national security agents to problems.

It is these threats that have prompted the government and private agencies to work together to combat cyber attacks. This article will discuss emerging cyber security technologies and government’s role in nurturing the development of these technologies.

Moving Target Defense

One of the modern cyber security technologies is moving target defense (MTD). The technology is regularly designed to alter the attack surface of a network, making it hard for attackers to access a system and reducing the susceptibilities and predictabilities available at any time.

According to Jajodia, Ghosh, Swarup, Wang and Wang (2014), hackers use network’s attack surface to determine its vulnerability. They allege that majority of the systems are static. Consequently, it is easy for hackers to access them.

Moving target defense enables organizations to “Change the network IP addresses, operating systems, open ports and protocols, and many other areas of the environment” (Jajodia et al., 2014, p, 35). Jajodia et al. (2014) recommend that it is imperative to make sure that events are not predictable.

Systems do this by making IP addresses’ movements as unpredictable and random as possible. Increase in randomness confuses a hacker making it hard for him or her to access a network. When an attacker inspects a system, he or she does not get consistent information that can help to launch an attack.

Moreover, MTD reduces chances of penetrating into a network because it regularly changes the network’s environment. Additionally, it fights an attack by lowering the number of components of a system that an attacker is familiar with or can access (Jajodia et al., 2014).

Plans are underway to develop Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6), which will allow organizations to run unlimited number of IP addresses. Besides, IPv6 will make it easy for networks randomly to change their internet addresses, which is a fundamental feature of moving target defense.

Today, if organizations want to use 100 different IP addresses weekly, they require setting aside at least 400 addresses every month. It translates to 4800 IP addresses annually (Jang-Jaccard & Surya, 2014).

Assuming that 1000 corporations wish to change their IP addresses, it would be difficult for the existing IP versions to hold such a huge number of IP addresses. However, IPv6 can hold such a number of IP addresses and execute their requests without difficulties.

Moving target defense is implemented in two ways, which are high-level and low-level behaviors. Jang-Jaccard and Surya (2014) state “Low-level behavior is where the standard semantics of the programming language are preserved, but its undefined semantics are changed” (p. 975).

The primary benefit of low-level behavior is that undefined semantics are mechanically changed. The demerit is that low-level behavior is only applicable to an indeterminate definition. Low-level MTD helps to avert memory encryption and code injection attacks.

High-level behavior entails preventing high-level attacks. It requires system administrators to have knowledge of the system’s functionality and its attack surface. The disadvantage of high-level behavior is that it is resource intensive. Besides, it requires skilled personnel to change the variables of a program.

Uses of Moving Target Defense

One of the challenges of using MTD is upholding a functional network for clients during transformations and reducing the associated costs. Nevertheless, there are companies that have created cost-effective and efficient moving target defenses. One of the companies is JumpSoft Company.

The company has developed subscription-based MTD software known as “JumpCenter” (Jang-Jaccard & Surya, 2014). The software utilizes “Adaptive and reactive mechanized systems, which lower the range of the attack surface” (Jang-Jaccard & Surya, 2014, p. 976).

The idea behind JumpCenter and MTD is to reduce the cost and vulnerability to attack. The software is planted in the application layer to guarantee that a network remains operational during the software’s transformations.

The Department of Homeland Security is already using moving target defense to protect its systems against cyber attacks. The security agency is in the process of developing a complex Internet Protocol (IP) Hopper.

The IP hopper will “Use the available network data and hopping algorithms to allow for the constant switching of both source and destination IP addresses” (Jang-Jaccard & Surya, 2014, p. 981). Once complete, the IP hopper will improve the possibility of a network to interchange continuously and arbitrarily up to 340 IP addresses.

The move will make it tricky for hackers to identify which IP address to target. Besides, it will be hard for hackers to screen a network.

Role of Federal Government

The federal government has spent in improvement of MTD. The Homeland Security is currently running a project aimed at strengthening MTD functionalities to fight cyber attacks. The Homeland Security’s Cyber Security Division is working with other institutions like National Science Foundation and National Security Agency to develop MTD.

The Homeland Security has already awarded research contracts aimed at developing algorithms that facilitate systematic reasoning in MTD systems (Speicher, 2014). Besides, the Homeland Security seeks to create a control technique that will ease the intricacy of Moving target defense system and automate some of its tasks.

In 2011, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research donated $1million to facilitate in development of moving target defense system. One of the benefits of government’s involvement is that it will contribute to making both public and private networks unpredictable, therefore, protecting them from cyber attacks.

One of the demerits of government involvement is that it has focused on protecting military networks and ignored corporate networks, which contribute to economic development (Lynn, 2014). Nonetheless, there is hope that the fight against cyber attacks will be a concerted effort between the government and private institutions.

The federal government is working in partnership with private sectors to enhance cyber security. Currently, it has funded a research by Networking and Information Technology Research Development (NITRD), which aims to transform cyber safety in the country.

Remote Agents Technology

Remote agents or what are commonly referred to as mobile agents are used to keep an eye dynamically on a network’s safety. Dynamic monitoring is essential since a system that is not equipped with current patches has proved vulnerable and unable to withstand modern cyber attacks.

In addition, it is hard for a system administrator to monitor large networks. Large systems comprise numerous nodes, each with regular system changes and clients (Kundur et al., 2014). Remote agents help to execute localized analysis of network security from a remote server or user without relying on timid firewall procedures.

Currently, most public and private corporations use network screening tools that use Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) or the “Occasional discharge of scripts built based on network threats which require tedious and complicated updates in order to remain current and valid” (Kundur et al., 2014, p. 7).

The primary difference between conventional Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) screening systems and remote agents is that the latter can relate different activities within the system, trigger a warning in the log file, and elevate responsiveness or intensity of danger of other agents.

For instance, systems with remote agents detect security or password threat if a person attempts to log into multiple accounts using the same login details (Kundur et al., 2014).

Additionally, remote agents help system administrators to raise the alert level whenever a root login incidence happens and exceeds a predefined threshold. A system executes all these functions without the need for an administrator.

Use of Remote Agent Technology

Both script and SNMP screening techniques tender inadequate functionality and need trained personnel to search through systems and write updates. A group of scholars at the University of Minnesota sought to solve the challenge of using SNMP and script based screening techniques by creating mobile agents.

The students developed Ajanta mobile agent program (Kundur et al., 2014). The program can distantly sort data and change system’s tasks. In addition, Ajanta mobile agent utilizes localized database to sense and evaluate policy actions to make sure that guidelines are observed.

Using Ajanta, network administrators can steadily impose changes on a system’s screening and sorting plan and easily insert or eliminate agents from a section of the network depending on actions triggered.

After the Wiki Leaks incidence, the federal government realized the importance of using remote monitoring techniques to manage its networks across the globe. Consequently, the government has already reviewed the United States’ international cyber laws as a step to help it use remote monitoring tools to manage its global cyberspace.

Investment in remote agent technologies will benefit not only the government, but also private investors (Kundur et al., 2014). It will assist private investors to subcontract their operations and control them from a distance, thus enhancing their efficiencies.

One demerit of the federal government’s involvement in the development of remote agents is that it might trigger animosity between countries. The federal government and private organizations will be able to spy on other countries or firms secretly.

There are claims that Kaspersky Lab; a Russian company has already discovered that the United States has been surreptitiously spying on a number of countries for quite some time. The company alleges that the United States installed a malware in many computers across the world.

The malware attacks firmware of a computer hard drive and go round security measures (Kundur et al., 2014). With the malware, the United States gathers security intelligence and other classified information from unknowing companies and countries.

Such a technology may lead to conflicts between states. Moreover, it would be disastrous if attackers get hold of the technology.

Real-Time Forensic Analysis

In modern digital world “Criminal proceedings are made easy through the use of computer forensic tools” (Casey, 2014, p. 15). Also associated with network screening is real-time forensic analysis. It is an investigative method used to create situational awareness and regular surveillance of a network.

Casey (2014) alleges “While remote access monitoring actively monitors the network and takes necessary action to correlate threats and increase defenses, real-time forensic analysis allows for an incident to be reproduced and the effects of the event to be analyzed further” (p. 17).

Real-time forensic analysis uses Network Forensic Analysis Tools (NFAT). Garfinkel (2014) asserts “The NFAT prepare a system for forensic examination and make it possible to screen and identify security breach and configuration errors” (p. 560).

The data gathered during the screening process can be used to analyze other events. Apart from filtering a network, real-time forensics has numerous practical applications.

For instance, health care facilities use real-time forensics to assess data moving from one department to another. Additionally, they use NFAT to recover lost data (Garfinkel, 2014).

According to Garfinkel (2014), it is hard to find proof of a risk that has never been detected before. Therefore, it is important to have a real-time picture of all activities that are going on in a network.

Real-time forensic analysis applies advanced methods of risk screening that include “Pervasive network recording, better visibility into network traffic, and deeper understanding of application state to monitor and report on deviant implementation and system behavior” (Casey, 2014, p. 21).

Through real-time forensic analysis, organizations document all network traffics, which assist them to monitor events taking place in a system. It becomes easy for organizations to detect illegal events and handle them before they affect their operations.

Organizations are buying sophisticated infringement deterrence, next-generation firewalls, Security Information Event Management (SIEM) and other apparatuses to boost their network security.

Uses of Real-Time Forensic Analysis

The United States’ Department of State uses real-time forensic analysis technique in its iPost system. The department uses iPost system to measure threats levels by pooling together information gathered from numerous sources like Active Directory and Short Message Services (SMS).

Moreover, the department collects information using a commercial liability analysis tool (Casey, 2014). The information assists managers and engineers to select sections of the network that have high levels of threat and counter risks against these sections correctly.

For over seven years now, the federal government has worked in partnership with private corporations to create real-time forensic software that can help to detect and mitigate cyber attacks.

One of the benefits of government involvement in the development of real-time forensic analysis tools is that it has helped companies to recognize and respond to possible attacks before they happen.

The federal government, through National Science Foundation, has developed an Email Mining Toolkit that facilitates in analysis of email traffics (Casey, 2014). The toolkit aids organizations to isolate and discard illegal emails. Casey (2014) alleges that forensic analysis is a daily activity in legal proceedings.

Therefore, the federal government has established a department that is responsible for computer forensics. The department has trained the public how to detect and deal with emerging network threats, thus, lowering cases of cyber attacks.

Tailored Trustworthy Spaces

The use of cyberspace and Internet has grown to an extent that it is difficult for people and institutions to operate without these two vital communication assets. For people and corporations to interact, they require Internet and cyberspace.

Lynn (2014) alleges that some corporate and personal interactions do not require security, while for some, safety is a must. The challenge is, institutional and individual interactions are treated equally. It is imperative to create various platforms with different levels of security. The approach is known as tailored trustworthy spaces (TTS).

The primary concern with managing programs in a common pool is that every user has access to all the available programs. Lynn (2014) claims “This ‘one size fits all’ methodology creates a lot of potential for attackers to find exploits in the environment where they can use untrusted applications to access trusted application data” (p. 100).

She asserts that the problem can be solved by creating varied trustworthy spaces, which are aligned to demands of programs or information that clients can access.

Privacy, reliability, and accessibility requirements vary from one program to another, one client to another and even from one situation to another. As a result, the objective of TTS is to establish a protected environment for safe programs while tolerating the use of untrusted programs without any restrictions (Lynn, 2014).

Research is underway to determine how to execute tailored trustworthy spaces. Computer programmers are looking for the possibility of creating a safe implementation window that matches the security needs of individual programs, clients, contexts, and circumstances.

In this approach, each secure program will be executed on a separate and safe window where it does not interact with other programs and system software that may retrieve private data without clients’ consent. If this research goes through, it will prevent hackers from using unsecured programs to access private and protected data.

With this method, it is vital to create not only a safe system and execution of the window, but also a safe termination. If not, the method would be prone to data leakage or hacking (Lynn, 2014).

Use of Tailored Trustworthy Spaces

Organizations are likely to benefit from tailored trustworthy spaces. One way that institutions can exploit it is through utilization of self-protecting data. Self-protecting data arises when data guards itself against unauthorized users. Companies achieve this by assigning security rule to each data.

The security rule is designed such that no application can breach it (Geers, 2014). A program can have both secure and insecure facets. However, it has no track or access of the protected data. For instance, a pharmaceutical company can have a recipe for a novel medicine that is extremely classified.

Conventionally, the company would be compelled to hoard the recipe either in a protected program or a safe space. Using self-protecting data, a pharmaceutical company can encrypt the recipe and fix it in any program that can also have unprotected data like a Microsoft Word file (Geers, 2014).

Anyone who intends to use the file can only access the unsecured information stored in the dossier, but not the recipe. It is hard for unauthorized users to access the recipe because it is encrypted. Only those with the right key can have access to the recipe. The recipe can be copied to people through emails and other programs but remain secure.

Another group that can use TTS is Journalists who operate in hostile conditions. Majority of these journalists have to use Internet cafes to communicate with their head offices. Therefore, their information is susceptible to hacking.

Besides, the journalists are frequently subjected to censorship practices such as the Great Firewall of China, which curtails transmission of particular information outside China (Geers, 2014). Majority of these censorship practices stop the transmission of completely encrypted files.

Using tailored trustworthy spaces, journalists can transmit encrypted data by attaching it to unsecured data. It is possible for the encrypted data to go around censorship and reach the planned destination.

Besides, the method can allow journalists to send sensitive information without fear of intimidation as the encrypted data would not be noticed.

Role of the Federal Government

Geers (2014) claims “The federal government has prioritized the research of tailored trustworthy spaces” (p. 299). He alleges that in 2011, the federal government, through the Office of Science and Technology Policy launched a research program aimed at improving the security of digital communications networks.

The federal government is focusing on Transistor-Transistor Logic (TTL) (Lynn, 2014).

It intends to use the “TTL technology in smart grid, which is a fundamental constituent of the national electrical power infrastructure….the federal government has organized for a number of workshops aimed at determining how TTL could protect smart grid from cyber attacks” (Lynn, 2014, p. 98).

The workshops established that TTL can help to develop reliable, safe and vibrant solutions to communications.

Transistor-transistor logic can allow neutral communications providers to run most of the smart grid functions, therefore, eliminating the need for individual power companies to undertake their safety measures (Kundur et al., 2014). Additionally, it can help a country to develop a secure and stable smart grid.

The United States government has already integrated TTL technology in its smart grid. The technology has helped the country to manage its power system and secure it from cyber attacks.

The major drawback of the technology is that it can be disastrous if hackers happen to penetrate it. They would have control of national electric grid system and cause a lot of damage to the country.

Searchable Encryption

The number of people that use cloud computing is growing by the day. The growth has weakened the security of data hoarded in cloud servers and exposed it to hackers.

A major issue is that people can no longer rely on these servers in their present condition. Abdalla et al. (2014) allege “Hackers who can acquire root rights and managers of cloud hosting institutions have unlimited admittance to data on cloud servers” (p. 352).

Therefore, the data is subject to various insecurity concerns since its bearer has no control over how it is utilized or accessed. One method of solving the problem of probing an encrypted cloud server is to get rid of all of the unprotected data through encryption. It gives data owners’ complete control of the encryption technique.

Full encryption constrains database explore abilities. The constraint can be addressed using a conventional approach such as transferring the whole database to a local server, decrypting it and executing the search. The approach is entirely unworkable and resource intensive.

Alternatively, data bearers can allow a server to decrypt information, run the search and transmit the outcomes to clients (Abdalla et al., 2014). The principal challenge of this approach is that the server can ultimately know the data a client is looking for, and thus, render encryption less efficient.

Technologists have come up with a technique that allows clients to access information from a server without having to necessarily decrypt a data. The technique is referred to as searchable encryption, and it addresses security challenges in cloud computing.

One accepted way of using searchable encryption is through search key. Abdalla et al. (2014) state “A search key is a data structure that stores document collections while supporting efficient keyword searches” (p. 350). With this approach, a client feeds in a keyword and the key generates an indicator to the file that has the searched phrase.

They allege that the key can only be safe if the search function bears a “trapdoor” for the search phrase (Abdalla et al., 2014). Otherwise, the search function cannot reveal any information about the protected data.

One method of creating a searchable encryption system is to have the user encrypt both the information and key and send the two to the server. To look for data, the user creates and sends a trapdoor for the data, which the server applies to look for pointers to the necessary file.

Search key improves security for data stored in cloud servers. Nonetheless, the method has a number of limitations. One of the limitations is that it can reveal some information about the user’s search. Particularly, search key method can show the access pattern that tells what files hold the search question.

One can mitigate this limitation by using oblivious random access memories (RAMs), which reduce chances of data leakage.

Use of Searchable Encryption

Bosch, Hartel, Jonker and Peter (2014) claim “Anticipations are high that the worldwide cloud computing market will grow at a 36% compound annual growth rate through 2016, reaching a total market size of $19.5 billion” ( p. 3). Thus, searchable encryption has a tremendous potential.

Because security is a major problem in cloud computing, it means that people will have to look for security measures to safeguard their data. Besides, organizations go for systems that give them full control of their data without compromising its security.

Searchable encryption allows organizations to access their data without worrying about its functionality and safety. Today, few cloud computing providers use searchable encryption on their servers (Bosch et al., 2014). Consequently, many businesses dread saving their data in the cloud.

Cloud services help organizations to cut down on operations cost by enhancing operations and reducing the time that products and services take to reach the market. Once searchable encryption is introduced to the business world, majority of the enterprises will no longer worry about the safety of their data. Besides, they will integrate cloud computing in their information technology (IT) infrastructure.

Some companies have already incorporated searchable encryption in cloud computing. Hitachi, a global engineering and IT firm, has already “Incorporated a form of searchable encryption in a standard algorithm for DNA genome analysis” (Bosch et al., 2014, p. 27).

The particular tool the company is using is referred to as Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST). The tool was exclusively developed to run genome study in the cloud. Bosch et al. (2014) allege that safety was mainly essential with this assignment since the search questions repeatedly contained a lot of identical variables.

Failure to encrypt the searches would have subjected the project to security risks since it would have been easy to penetrate the server due to the few variables being searched.

The federal government is actively participating in the effort to protect cloud servers. Lately, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) issued a statement that outlined the challenges encountered in trying to secure cloud servers. The statement cited encrypted search as a primary problem.

According to NIST, it is hard to control search keys even in established systems and data centers because of the quantity of data. Additionally, the amount of cryptographic keys and need for sharing data with multiple users make securing cloud servers an uphill task (Bosch et al., 2014).

In cloud computing, logical and physical management of resources is shared among the cloud actors. Bosch et al. (2014) allege “The actors comprise the users, hosting companies, and brokers who bring together varied cloud providers” (p. 47). The federal government is helping to develop measures to address these challenges.

A fascinating feature of searchable encryption is its impacts on a state. In an unprecedented manner, the application of searchable encryption may hamper the efforts of the government. Cloud hosting makes it easy for the government to access information about different companies and individuals.

The government liaises with cloud hosting companies to get the information. For instance, in case of cyber attacks, the government works with cloud hosting companies to pursue the perpetrators (Bosch et al., 2014). Adoption of searchable encryption can limit information sharing between cloud hosting businesses and the government.

Cloud hosting companies can no longer have access to users’ data since they assume full control of their information. Hence, it is difficult for the government to obtain information that can help them prevent cyber crimes or arrest perpetrators.

Increase in cases of cyber attacks has forced public and private institutions to invest in novel cyber security technologies. Organizations have invested in moving target defense, real-time forensic analysis, searchable encryption, and remote agents technologies to protect their networks from cyber attacks.

Moving target defense allows companies dynamically to change their key variables such as IP addresses. Hence, hackers can hardly predict the pattern of network applications or spot attack surface. Searchable encryption allows companies to encrypt and transmit classified data in such a way that unauthorized users cannot access it.

The technology goes a long way to protect cloud computing from cyber attacks. Additionally, with real-time forensic analysis, institutions can monitor events in their networks and respond to any suspicious or illegal activities.

The federal government has actively supported and nurtured emerging cyber security technologies. The government has heavily invested in research and projects aimed at improving the existing technologies and developing new ones.

For instance, the federal government through the Office of Science and Technology Policy launched a research program to develop tailored trustworthy spaces for digital communication networks.

The federal government has mainly concentrated on transistor-transistor logic (TTL). In addition, the federal government is encouraging public and private institutions to integrate emerging cyber security technologies in their networks.

The government holds that tailored trustworthy spaces, Moving target defense, and searchable encryption are the only techniques that can withstand modern cyber threats. The three technologies, if further improved can combat existing and future threats.

Even though the federal government has made the fight against cyber attacks a concerted effort between public and private institutions, it is important to recognize that if not well managed, this venture may cause conflicts among the countries.

For instance, the federal government has already established a remote agent program that is capable of harvesting military intelligence and other classified information from unknowing institutions. If well managed, such a program may help to fight cyber attacks by collecting and relaying information regarding attackers.

However, if misused, it might lead to conflicts between countries or firms. Hence, it is recommended that all emerging cyber security technologies are utilized prudently. There should be an independent body that supervises implementation of the emerging technologies.

Abdalla, M., Bellare, M., Catalano, D., Kiltz, E., Kohno, T., Lange, T., Malone-Lee, J., Neven, G., Paillier, P., & Shi, H. (2014). Searchable encryption revisited: Consistency properties, relation to anonymous IBE, and extensions. Journal of Cryptography, 21 (3), 350-391.

Bosch, C., Hartel, P., Jonker, W., & Peter, A. (2014). Survey of provable secure Searchable Encryption. ACM Computing Surveys, 47 (2), 1-51.

Casey, E. (2014). Handbook of digital forensics and investigation . Burlington: Academic Press.

Garfinkel, S. (2014). Digital forensic research: The next ten years. Digital Investigation, 7 (3), 564-573.

Geers, K. (2014). The challenge of cyber attack deterrence. Computer Law & Security Review, 26 (3), 298-303.

Jajodia, S., Ghosh, A., Swarup, V., Wang, C., & Wang, S. (2014). Moving target defense: Creating asymmetric uncertainty for cyber threats . New York: McGraw-Hill.

Jang-Jaccard, J., & Surya, N. (2014). A survey of emerging threats in cybersecurity. Journal of Computer and System Science, 80 (5), 973-993.

Kundur, D., Feng, X., Mashayekh, S., Liu, S., Zourntos, T., & Butler-Purry, K. (2014). Towards modeling the impact of cyber attacks on smart grid. International Journal of Security and Networks, 6 (1), 2-13.

Lynn, W. (2014). Defending a new domain: The Pentagon’s cyberstrategy. Foreign Affairs, 89 (5), 97-108.

Speicher, C. (2014). Security fabric-tailored trustworthy spaces: Flexibility based on policy management . Santa Clara: Santa Clara University.

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IvyPanda. (2023, December 15). Cyber Security Technologies. https://ivypanda.com/essays/cyber-security-technologies/

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A Guide to Cybersecurity Awareness for Students

As we immerse ourselves more into the digital world, our personal and academic lives have become intertwined with technology, rendering cybersecurity awareness increasingly critical. Particularly for students, who are constantly interacting online, the need to understand and protect against cyber threats is paramount.

This article aims to enlighten students about their role in ensuring cyber safety. Let’s delve into the expansive digital threat landscape and how you, as students, can actively contribute to combating cyber threats. 

Remember, cybersecurity is not just about protecting your digital life; it’s about actively safeguarding cyberspace for everyone. Let’s delve deeper into this crucial topic.

  • What Students Should Know

Why Students Are Essential Players in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity basics for students.

  • Cybersecurity Awareness Tips for Students​

Understanding the Digital Threat Landscape: What Students Should Know

Cybersecurity for Students - Right-Hand Cybersecurity

As a student navigating the digital world, it’s vital to recognize the potential cybersecurity threats that could impact your personal and academic life. Here are some critical threats that you need to be aware of:

  • Ransomware Attacks : Ransomware is malicious software that cybercriminals use to encrypt a user’s files. The attacker then demands payment from the victim to restore access to the data.
  • Social Engineering Attacks : These are tactics cybercriminals use to manipulate individuals into giving out sensitive information or performing specific actions, such as clicking on a harmful link. These deceptive tactics can come in various forms, like emails, texts, or phone calls that appear to be from trustworthy sources.
  • Phishing Attacks : Cybercriminals trick you into revealing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, or credit card details, by pretending to be a trustworthy entity through email or text. As a student, falling for a phishing attack could lead to unauthorized access to your academic records and personal information.
  • Malware: This involves malicious software, like viruses, worms, or spyware, that can cause damage to your computer, server, or network. Some types of malware can even take control of your system without your knowledge, potentially losing valuable data and disrupting your digital activities.

The advent of new technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices has brought forth new forms of cyber threats, such as deepfakes and IoT-based attacks.

Beyond these specific threats, the digital threat landscape is ever-evolving. Therefore, staying updated about these threats and adapting your online behavior is vital. Remember, your role in cyber security is crucial. Each step you take towards being more cyber-aware contributes to a safer digital environment for yourself and others.

Students play a critical role in the cyber security landscape. Students’ interactions on digital platforms potentially make them both targets and defenders against cyber threats.

Every action, every click, and every piece of information shared online can significantly impact cybersecurity. A social media post, for example, might unwittingly provide cybercriminals with the information they need to breach a network. On the other hand, implementing secure online practices, such as employing robust passwords and exercising caution with emails, can significantly reduce your chances of falling victim to cyber threats.

The potential implications of neglecting cybersecurity are significant and varied, including:

Given these possible consequences, it’s evident that students’ role in cyber security is pivotal. Your participation in cybersecurity isn’t passive – it’s about active engagement in implementing secure practices and fostering cyber awareness among peers. Awareness of cyber threats and understanding the implications of your online actions are the first steps toward creating a safer digital environment.

As students, understanding the basic principles of cybersecurity is paramount to navigating this digital landscape safely. With a significant part of your academic and social life unfolding online, having a fundamental grasp of cyber security concepts can help you protect yourself from potential threats.

Let’s delve into these cybersecurity basics every student should know and apply. These principles serve as the foundation for your digital safety and are vital in your journey toward becoming more cyber-resilient:

Password Security

Strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts are your first line of defense against unauthorized access. Also, consider using a password manager to securely store complex passwords.

Privacy Settings

Regularly review and adjust your privacy settings on social media and other online platforms to control who can see your personal information and posts.

MultiFactor Authentication (MFA)

This provides an additional layer of security beyond your password. Even if your password is compromised, MFA requires another piece of information to access your account.

Secure Browsing

Always look for the 'https' and padlock symbol in your browser's address bar when submitting sensitive information online. This signifies that your connection to the site is encrypted and more secure.

Phishing Awareness

Be wary of unexpected emails or messages asking for your personal information or prompting you to click a link. Reputable organizations will never ask for sensitive information through email or text messages.

Software Updates

Regularly updating your devices' software ensures you have the latest security patches, helping protect against known vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit.

These cybersecurity concepts  aren’t just theory; they are practical steps you can incorporate into your everyday online activity. By doing so, you contribute to creating a safer online environment for yourself and those around you. Cybersecurity isn’t a one-and-done thing, but a continual process of learning, adapting, and taking conscious steps to protect your digital life.

Cybersecurity Awareness Tips for Students

Cybersecurity Awareness Tips for Students - Right-Hand Cybersecurity

The path to becoming cyber-aware starts with learning and understanding the basics of cybersecurity. But to truly make a difference, this knowledge must be implemented. Here are some tangible steps you can take as a student to boost your cybersecurity awareness and help create a safer digital environment:

  • Stay Informed : Cybersecurity is dynamic, with new threats emerging regularly. Stay updated on the latest cyber threats and security practices by following reliable cybersecurity blogs, podcasts, or news outlets.
  • Use Secure Connections: Whenever possible, avoid using public Wi-Fi for activities that require you to enter personal or sensitive information. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your connection.
  • Regularly Update and Back up Your Data: Ensure your devices are constantly updated with the latest software versions, as these often contain security enhancements. Additionally, regularly backing up your data can help mitigate the damage if your device is compromised.
  • Learn About and Implement Privacy Settings: Each social media platform and online service has different privacy settings and options. Take time to understand these settings and customize them according to your comfort level and needs.
  • Participate in Cybersecurity Training: Many schools and online platforms offer cybersecurity training. Participate in these pieces of training to deepen your understanding of cybersecurity and learn practical skills for staying safe online.

By taking these steps, you will increase your cybersecurity awareness and actively contribute to reducing the risk of cyber threats in your digital environment. Remember, in the interconnected world of the internet, every user’s actions can significantly impact the overall security of the network. Your commitment to practicing safe online behaviors can make a real difference.

essay on cyber safety and security

Cybersecurity awareness is more than just a nice-to-have skill for students; it’s a necessary competence in our increasingly digital world. Recognizing the threats online and understanding how to protect yourself from them is critical for your safety, privacy, and overall digital well-being.

In this article, we’ve explored the digital threat landscape, highlighted the essential role of students in cybersecurity, and outlined fundamental cybersecurity concepts. We also provided practical steps to enhance cybersecurity awareness and safeguard digital life.

Remember, cybersecurity is not a destination but a journey that involves constant learning, adaptation, and vigilance. As a student navigating the digital landscape, your active participation in cybersecurity is crucial. Your decisions can make a significant difference in creating a safer online environment for yourself and your entire academic community. Your journey toward cybersecurity awareness starts today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Cybersecurity awareness is crucial for students because a significant part of their academic and social life happens online. With the increasing use of digital platforms, students are often targets for cyber threats. Understanding cybersecurity basics and practicing safe online behaviors can help protect students from these threats and create a safer digital environment for all users.

Students often face cybersecurity threats like phishing, malware, and ransomware. Phishing involves fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information, while malware and ransomware involve malicious software designed to damage or gain unauthorized access to systems and data.

You can create strong, unique passwords using uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using obvious information like your name, birth date, or simple patterns. Consider using a password manager to generate and securely store complex passwords.

MultiFactor Authentication (MFA) is an extra layer of security for your digital accounts. In addition to your password, MFA requires a second piece of information to access your account, such as a temporary code sent to your phone. MFA is important because it provides additional security, reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if your password is compromised.

Following reputable cybersecurity blogs, podcasts, or news outlets, you can stay updated on the latest cybersecurity threats and practices. Additionally, participating in cybersecurity training offered by schools or online platforms can provide practical knowledge and skills for staying safe online.

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Cyber Security Essay

Type of paper: Essay

Topic: Government , Cyber Crimes , Information Security , Infrastructure , Security , Information , Company , Politics

Words: 1200

Published: 02/26/2020

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Introduction

Cyber space is becoming increasingly dangerous for the United States and the world over. It represents one of the most critical national security, public safety and economic concern. The very technology that empowers United States in innovation and development also presents an opportunity for those who want to disrupt and destroy. Computing and information technology is critical for military superiority, but also poses a challenge as unclassified government networks are under constant probing and intrusion. The daily lives of Americans are dependent on power and the electric grid, but terrorist could use cyber vulnerabilities to cause massive damages. Internet and e-commerce have simplified transactions, but have been used by fraudsters to inflict financial losses spanning hundreds of millions of dollars. The threats faced in the cyberspace range from individual attackers to criminal groups, terrorist affiliations, and advanced nation states. According to a study conducted by Norton in 2011 about the cost of cybercrime, it's estimated that $114 billion is lost annually by businesses and individuals and when combined with the value of time victims loss due to cybercrime, the figure goes beyond $300 billion. In order to defend against these threats, a strategic national plan is required to safeguard networks and computing infrastructure and increase their resilience to attacks. The digital infrastructure is a national resource that is of immense priority.

Thesis statement

Safeguarding the digital infrastructure require cooperative strategies between government and private sector to develop solutions that deter, prevent, detect, defend against, and help to quickly recover from cyber intrusions and attacks in order to preserve the liberties and privacy of American citizens. While attempting to gain great milestones in the fight against cybercrime, White House laid down two strategies. First involve investing in people and technology. To achieve significant results, the government indicated its will to form partnerships with private sector in order to develop secure technology that provides better protection and resilience to critical government and industry systems and networks. Since cyber crime is evolving, there is need to continuously invest in cutting-edge technologies and innovations that provides better security. In regards to people, a national campaign that creates cyber security awareness and digital literacy kicked off in 2010. The campaign spread across the spectrum, from boardrooms to classrooms. Second, the US government deemed necessary to forge strategic partnerships with domestic players and international allies to fight against cyber crime. The advance involved development of acceptable conduct in cyberspace in form of laws concerning cyberspace, data transfer and preservation, privacy and protection, and approaches for network defense and responses to cyber attacks. Through collaboration with all government levels, private sector and citizens, nationally and internationally, a unified approach was anticipated to investigate cyber intrusion and ensure organized approach to future cyber incidents. The US governments objectives to fighting cyber crime has not improved much. With the shutdown of Cybersecurity Act of 2012, it essentially blocks any chance of implementing effective cyber security laws in the country. The failure of the Cybersecurity Act of 2012 is attributed to industry opposition. Following that move, the White House has moved to implement cybersecurity protection via executive order. President Obama maintained in his first term in office that cybersecurity was a key priority. However, after unsuccessful promoting the passage of the Act by senate, and even threatening to veto the Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act, it still remains a challenging task. The executive order tilted Critical Infrastructure Cyber Security aims to strengthen the government’s protection of critical infrastructure in partnership with the private sector. Computing and information technology is critical for military superiority, but also poses a challenge as unclassified government networks are under constant probing and intrusion. The daily lives of Americans are dependent on power and the electric grid, but terrorist could use cyber vulnerabilities to cause massive damages. According to the Department of Homeland Security, its provisions include; - Sharing of threat reports among federal agencies and relevant companies - Participation of companies outside the Defense Industrial Base in Enhanced Cybersecurity Services - Development of a voluntary program to help companies in the implementation of risk reduction framework - Development of Cyber-risk reduction framework spearheaded by the National Institute of Standards and Technology - Current review of cybersecurity regulations

Inclusion of privacy and civil liberties safeguards in companies orders security cybersecurity activities based on Fair Information Practice Principles.

Together with the Presidential Policy Directive on Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience, intended to improve coordination between government and industry on security critical infrastructure, the legislations are used to manage cybersecurity. The Presidential Policy Directive on Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience calls for research and innovative plans to aid the government in the management of cybercrime. This act empowers the government to identify situational awareness capabilities that outlines the implications of cyber incident as well as management of other information-sharing priorities. Through collaboration with all government levels, private sector and citizens, nationally and internationally, a unified approach was anticipated to investigate the cyber intrusion and ensure organized approach to future cyber incidents. The Cybersecurity and American Cyber Competitiveness Act of 2013 is the new law aimed at enhancing cyber security. The bill if passed will oversee the establishment of an information sharing mechanism, public-private risk assessment, and critical infrastructure attack response system and privacy protection. Also, a re-introduced Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act is similar to CISPA version of 2012 and enjoys immense support from industry players. Among others, the policy will authorize the government to compel private companies to provide classified cyber threat information. Also, it will empower companies and businesses to share information about each other on a voluntary basis as well as protect from liability companies that share threat information. The slow passage of cyber security acts and policies to counter the dynamic cybercrime is attributed to industry groups and civil society groups. Industry groups such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are against the passage of cyber security proposals due to concerns that they would introduce unfair regulatory burdens or costs on firms. There is also the issue of liability protection for firms handing information that are privacy protected to government or other agencies. These concerns impede the benefits that could be derived from implementation of cybercrime acts.

Cybersecurity is proving to be a major crime in the US. Alongside terrorism cybercrime is the major threat facing the U.S today. Hackers are stealing important information from Fortune 500 firms apart from breaking into government networks. This calls for a proactive approach to control cybercrime. The lack of consensus among industry players and legislators in the management of cybercrime is a worrying trend. The acts need to be passed to help manage the cyber space. Innovative research and programs need to be carried out to ensure pragmatic solutions to the dynamic cyber threats.

Congress, 1. (2011-2013). Cybersecurity Act 2012. govtrack.us. House, W. (2010). National Security Strategy. Kramer, F. S. (2012). Cyberpower and national security. Springer. US, N. (2012, August 25). Cyber Attacks Againts US Military Computers Increase Sharply. Voice of America.

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Student Essays

Essays-Paragraphs-Speeches

Essay On Cyber Security | Importance, Risks & Challenges

The Cyber security is the need of today’s time. The world is getting on increasingly digital. Here in point, there comes the needs for us to strengthen our cyber security to face possible risk and cyber challenges. Here is the short essay in point that discusses the meaning, importance, risks, challenges and ways to deal with cyber security in today’s world. This essay is helpful for both children and students.

List of Topics

Essay on Cyber Security, its Meaning & Importance 

Defining Cyber Security

Cyber security can be defined as the protection of systems, networks and data within cyberspace. Defending against losses, compromises, or attacks using preventative measures is the goal of cyber security

Meaning & Importance of Cyber Security in Modern World 

Cybersecurity is a complex issue that cuts across multiple domains and requires multi-dimensional, multi-layered initiatives and responses. Since it involves various ministries and departments, it has proved to be a challenge for governments. In the absence of tangible perpetrators, the threat spectrum is diffused and varied, making it difficult to formulate a suitable response.

The goal of cybersecurity is to prevent unauthorized or unattended access, destruction, and changes to data, networks, programs, and other information. Security threats and cyber-attacks have made cybersecurity a very important issue in the modern world. There are many companies that develop software for data protection.

Using this software, the data will be protected. In addition to protecting information, cybersecurity helps to protect our system from virus attacks. The U.S. and China have the most internet users, followed by India.

Classification/Types of Cyber Security

Cyber security can be classified into two broad categories;

  • Cyber crime

Cyber Warfare

Cyber crime.

Criminal activities using computers or networked devices are known as cybercrime. Most cybercrimes are performed by cybercriminals for financial gain, but other cybercrimes are undertaken to damage or disable computers or devices, while others use computers or networks to spread malicious software, illegal information or images. It causes frustration, anger & Loneliness among the victims.

In addition to its financial effects, cybercrime can involve many different types of profit-driven criminal activity, such as ransomware attacks, email and internet fraud, and identity fraud, as well as attempts to steal financial account, credit card or other payment card information.

How to Boost Cyber Security & Prevent Cyber crime

Although it may not be possible to eliminate cybercrime completely and ensure complete internet security, businesses can reduce their exposure to it by implementing an effective cybersecurity strategy that employs a defense-in-depth approach to securing systems, networks, and data.

The following steps can help reduce cybercrime risks:

  • Create a clear policy and procedure for the business and its employees;
  • Prepare plans for managing cybersecurity incidents;
  • Provide an overview of the systems and data protection measures in place;
  • Install two-factor authentication (2FA) keys or use two-factor authentication apps;
  • When possible, enable 2FA for every online account;
  • Verify verbally the authenticity of requests to send money by talking to a financial manager;
  • Set up intrusion detection systems (IDS) to flag emails with extensions similar to company emails;
  • Analyze each email request for a transfer of funds to determine if it is different from the norm;
  • In order to prevent security breaches, employees should be continuously trained on cybersecurity procedures;
  • Maintain all software release updates and patches on websites, endpoint devices, and systems; and
  • Data and information should be backed up regularly to avoid data breaches and ransomware attacks.

Cyberwarfare is the use of computers and the networks that connect them to wage war against other states. Government and military networks are usually attacked in cyberwar in order to disrupt, destroy, or deny their use. Cyberspace is made up of computers and their networks. Almost every aspect of modern society depends on cyberspace, and developing countries are becoming more reliant on it each year.

From critical infrastructure to financial institutions and commerce to national security, almost everything modern society relies on cyberspace to function. Cyber attacks do share some similarities with other criminal attacks in that they produce the same result.

The role of cybersecurity in today’s world is growing due to the high penetration of the internet. Cybersecurity is becoming an increasingly dangerous issue to the security of a country. Among the citizens as well as the government, awareness of updated network and system security settings and the use of proper anti-virus should be spread so that your networking and system settings remain virus-free and secure.

Short Essay on Cyber Security & its Importance today

Cybersecurity is an effort to keep electronic gadgets such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets away from hackers and data thieves. It is always detrimental to the end user.

Nowadays, everyone needs to have proper cybersecurity with the increasing use of electronic gadgets. It ensures the protection of our private data and official and personal documents. Cyber Security is essential to ensure the safety and privacy of our data. When Cyber Security is not implemented, anyone can steal, misuse, and abuse our data without our authorization.

Keeping our data and important documents secure when using electronic gadgets is extremely important for all people who use them regularly and frequently. Cyber security has grave impact upon the mental health of youth. It has been the leading cause of frustration, depression , anger and uncertainty.  Cyber Security is provided in many ways, some of which are Antivirus, Antimalware, End-User Protection, etc.

It is important to update your system software regularly. Choose a strong password when enabling security on your gadgets. Also, avoid clicking on uncertain and suspicious links. Keeping our devices secure with the help of the tools discussed above is crucial in the current digital world.

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Essay on Cyber Security for Students in English [500 Words]

January 3, 2021 by Sandeep

Essay on Cyber Security: The data, networks and other important confidential information present online needs to be protected from prospective hackers and hacker groups to prevent them from leakage. Cyber security acts and rules are enacted and enforced in situations where there is a cyber-crime on the spot. Accessing data in an unauthorized way, destruction of information, using data without permission, introducing malicious software and viruses to extract data are some of the common cyber crimes taking place worldwide.

Essay on Cyber Security 500 Words in English

Below we have provided Cyber Security Essay in English, suitable for class 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.

“If you spend more on coffee than on IT, you will be hacked.” ~ Richard Clarke

The world is now one global digital village with all of its population and cultures connected. India has the second-largest internet-using population in the world, with more than 400 million users. Cybersecurity is the protection of computer systems from damage to their hardware, software and electronic data. It is also a measure to prevent thefts, disruption of data and misleading of services. The need for cybersecurity has drastically increased because of the huge reliance on wireless networks and the internet .

Need for Cyber Security

It is estimated that on average, companies spend more than 400 billion dollars on cybersecurity. While many choose to protect their systems, others do not invest in cybersecurity to keep their costs down. Following are some reasons why you should invest in cybersecurity now more than ever-:

The cost of a security breach can be very high for a company. It not only causes financial damage but affects the reputation of the firm as well. Clients or customers upon knowing that a breach has happened would think that the company has a flawed security system and would hence like to take their business elsewhere. People who illegally enter into your electronic systems are known as hackers.

The number of hackers in the world has increased, and so has their level of sophistication. When even Deloitte, the largest cybersecurity consultant company in the world was not able to protect itself from a cyber-attack, think of how easy it would be for a hacker to enter your cell phones. The easy availability of hacking tools on the internet has made cyber attacks an even stronger possibility. These tools are getting more updated and superior day by day, and so are the people using them.

Cyber Crime

Cybercrime is any criminal or illegal activity that takes place on or through the internet. There are various types of cybercrimes-: Many innocent individuals, mostly women, are victims of cyberstalking. It is a type of sexual harassment that involves sending messages and emails online. The content of these messages and emails may be threatening and even provocative.

Phishing is another very common type of cyber-attack. In this, identical emails are sent to a very large number of people. The cyber attacker poses as a trustworthy entity of an institution and tries to obtain sensitive information from you like your bank details, credit card details and passwords.

Email bombing and spamming have also been in use for a long time now. Email bombing happens when a cyber attacker sends thousands of emails to the same email addresses through the help of bots. The emails sent are mostly meaningless and use up lots of internet bandwidth. Because of receiving such heavy traffic in the account at once, the email accounts of many people are crashed, and then they fail to access them. Through email spamming, people are sent inappropriate links, fake news and attachments that when clicked on, inject viruses in the computer .

Benefits of Cyber Security

Individuals and companies are always on the risk of cyber-attacks. No one is safe from them in the current world. Hence, it is advisable to have a cyber security plan or some sort of protection software. The advantages of having a cybersecurity solution are as follows-:

The major advantage to companies is that cybersecurity helps in protecting their business. Small companies and newer businesses are more prone to such breaches, and hence, having a cybersecurity plan can save the company its resources in more than one way. It allows employees to work and surf freely without any threats and does not let work productivity diminish. Cybersecurity also helps the company’s website from shutting down by getting electronically infected. The crashing of the website can cause e-commerce giants to lose a lot of revenue and transactions.

essay on cyber safety and security

essay on cyber safety and security

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✍️Essay on Cybercrime: Free Samples in 100, 200, 300 Words

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Essay on Cybercrime

The 21st century is a digital age, where any and every task is done on the internet. All thanks to the developments in technology which have been the main factor to ease human life on earth and maybe on other plants in future. But with the benefits of technology, there are several harmful effects, one of them which has recently gained popularity; Cyber Crime. 

Cybercrime has emerged as pervasive and evolved as one of the most dangerous threats to humans. There are several users on the internet who indulge in illegal and criminal activities, using computers and networks. To guide you through this hot debate topic, below we have discussed essays on cybercrime.

This Blog Includes:

Essay on cybercrime in 100 words, essay on cybercrime in 200 words, essay on cybercrime in 300 words.

Also Read: Essay on Student Life

Cybercrime involves illegal activities like hacking, ransomware, cyberbullying, online fraud, etc. People who are involved in cybercrime or any similar activities are called hackers, scammers or fraudsters. Cybercrime leads to financial loss for individuals who have fallen victim to one. Cybercrime often invades a person’s privacy by stealing their personal details, including sensitive data, photos, and communication records, which can be used for blackmailing or any malicious purpose.

There are several governmental and non-government organizations which are working 

To tackle cybercrime by raising awareness among the masses, cyber security training, implementing robust security protocols, and enacting comprehensive cybercrime laws.

Cybercrime is a criminal activity done online using a computer, network and internet. With the increasing use of the internet and mobile phones, the number of criminal activities has also gained pace.  These criminal-minded people steal the personal details of a person, which leads to financial losses and damages the reputation of the victims. Various scams and fraudulent schemes are offered on the internet like online auctions, advance fees, or any investment scam, which are all aimed at deceiving individuals into parting with their money.

Cybercrime is not limited to financial losses or reputational damage, a more discrete term has emerged; cyberbullying.  In cyberbullying, a person is harassed, humiliated, or threatened online. This can have severe psychological and emotional consequences. Ethical hackers or white hat hackers can help organizations identify vulnerabilities in their systems before malicious hackers exploit them. 

Cybercrime doesn’t have any boundaries and is an international issue and international cooperation is crucial for tracking and prosecuting cybercriminals who operate across borders. To combat cybercrime effectively, a multi-faceted approach is required, involving education, technology, legislation, and international cooperation. As technology continues to advance, our efforts to combat cybercrime must keep pace to protect our increasingly interconnected world.

Also Read – Essay on Winter Season

Economists have termed cybercrime as ‘ A Hidden Threat to the Digital World.’ Modern humans are relying on the internet for their day-to-day activities and every macro and micro activity. In this sense, the term cybercrime comes to the front. Cybercrime refers to criminal activities conducted through the use of computers, networks, and the Internet. 

Cybercrime consists of various malicious activities like hacking, phishing, ransomware attacks, identity theft, online fraud, and cyberbullying. Hackers, fraudsters, scammers, criminals, and even state-sponsored actors exploit vulnerabilities in digital systems to steal sensitive information, disrupt operations, and cause financial and emotional harm to victims.

The consequences of cybercrime are far-reaching. Financial losses run into 10 digits annually, affecting individuals and organizations alike. Personal privacy is invaded as cybercriminals steal sensitive data, photos, and communication records. In cases of cyberbullying and harassment, victims suffer reputational damages, psychological distress, and emotional trauma, particularly in cases of cyberbullying and harassment.

It’s necessary to look for a multifaceted approach to deal with cybercrime, some of which are.

  • Raising public awareness through campaigns where people are informed about the risks of cybercrime and educate them on best practices for online safety.
  • Individuals and organizations should implement robust security protocols, regularly update software, and use multi-factor authentication to protect their digital assets.
  • Governments should enact and enforce cybercrime laws, providing law enforcement agencies with the resources and expertise needed to prosecute cybercriminals effectively.
  • Looking at the global nature of cybercrime, international collaboration is vital. Countries should work together to share threat intelligence and cooperate in the investigation and prosecution of cybercriminals.
  • Ethical hackers can help organizations identify and rectify vulnerabilities in their systems before malicious actors exploit them.

Tackling cybercrime requires proactive measures, including education, strong cybersecurity practices, legislation, international cooperation, and the active involvement of ethical hackers.

Related Articles

Cybercrime is an illegal and unethical activity which is done by hackers and fraudsters to gain financial or any other benefits for themselves.

To tackle cybercrime, several measures can be taken. Some of these measures are education and public awareness, research and innovation, ethical hacking, etc.

To write an essay on cybercrime, you need to give details on how it works and the level of danger it poses to humans. Cybercrime consists of various malicious activities like hacking, phishing, ransomware attacks, identity theft, online fraud, and cyberbullying. Hackers, fraudsters, scammers, criminals, and even state-sponsored actors exploit vulnerabilities in digital systems to steal sensitive information, disrupt operations, and cause financial and emotional harm to victims.

For more information about such informative articles, visit our essay writing page and make sure to follow Leverage Edu .

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The reported leak of Chinese hacking documents supports experts' warnings about how compromised the US could be

  • More than 570 documents reported to be from a Chinese state-backed hacking group were posted online.
  • They mentioned targets in at least 20 countries and territories, The Washington Post reported.
  • Officials have issued repeated warnings about China's hacking operations.

Insider Today

A reported trove of leaked Chinese hacking documents may have given the world a glimpse of how widespread and effective China's hacking operations could be.

More than 570 files and documents were posted to the developer platform GitHub last week, The Washington Post reported. They appear to document hacking activity across multiple countries and come from iSoon, which the Post identified as a private security contractor with ties to China's Ministry of Public Security.

"We have every reason to believe this is the authentic data of a contractor supporting global and domestic cyber espionage operations out of China," a cybersecurity expert, John Hultquist, told the Post.

On Wednesday, the Associated Press reported that China's police were investigating the leak, citing two unnamed iSoon employees it spoke with. The employees told the AP that the documents belonged to the group.

The files mentioned targets ranging from government agencies to businesses such as telecommunications firms in at least 20 foreign countries and territories including the UK, India, South Korea, Thailand, and Malaysia, the Post reported.

The hackers had claimed to be able to exploit vulnerabilities in software made by companies including Microsoft and Google, per the Post. (The Post said that Microsoft didn't respond to a request for comment and that Google said the documents didn't mention specific vulnerabilities in its software.)

A Google spokesperson told Business Insider that in addition to the files not mentioning specific vulnerabilities in Google's software, the documents describe standard malware techniques that are well-known to the company's security teams. A representative for Microsoft declined to comment when approached by Business Insider.

While the Post's report didn't mention any US targets, the files align with repeated warnings from security officials and experts on China's hacking operations .

The FBI chief, Christopher Wray, told " 60 Minutes " in October that China was running " the biggest hacking program in the world ."

Wray said China had "stolen more of our personal and corporate data than every nation, big or small, combined."

And when it comes to tackling the threat posed by Chinese hackers, Wray said the FBI was finding itself outnumbered .

"If each one of the FBI's cyber agents and intelligence analysts focused exclusively on the China threat, China's hackers would still outnumber FBI cyber personnel by at least 50 to 1," Wray told lawmakers last month.

Representatives for China's foreign ministry didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Correction: February 22, 2024 — This story was updated to clarify that The Washington Post had characterized a hacking group's ability to exploit vulnerabilities in companies' software as claims, not as fact, and to note the Post's efforts to contact Microsoft and Google about the claims. An earlier version of this story also misspelled the surname of a cybersecurity expert interviewed by the Post. It's John Hultquist, not John Hultquitist.

February 23, 3:45 a.m. — This story has been updated with responses from Microsoft.

essay on cyber safety and security

Watch: JOHN MCAFEE: This is why the US is losing the ‘cyber war’ to China and Russia

essay on cyber safety and security

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Canadian federal police says they were targeted by cyberattack

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Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Sandra Maler

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Thomson Reuters

Kanishka Singh is a breaking news reporter for Reuters in Washington DC, who primarily covers US politics and national affairs in his current role. His past breaking news coverage has spanned across a range of topics like the Black Lives Matter movement; the US elections; the 2021 Capitol riots and their follow up probes; the Brexit deal; US-China trade tensions; the NATO withdrawal from Afghanistan; the COVID-19 pandemic; and a 2019 Supreme Court verdict on a religious dispute site in his native India.

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Leaked files from Chinese firm show vast international hacking effort

A previous version of this article incorrectly asserted that, in leaked documents, the Chinese hacking group iSoon claimed to be able to exploit vulnerabilities in U.S. companies, including Microsoft, Apple and Google. In fact, the hackers claimed that they were able to target users of these platforms to install malicious software and extract data. The article has been corrected.

A trove of leaked documents from a Chinese state-linked hacking group shows that Beijing’s intelligence and military groups are attempting large-scale, systematic cyber intrusions against foreign governments, companies and infrastructure — with hackers of one company claiming to be able to target users of Microsoft, Apple and Google.

The cache — containing more than 570 files, images and chat logs — offers an unprecedented look inside the operations of one of the firms that Chinese government agencies hire for on-demand, mass data - collecting operations.

The files — posted to GitHub last week and deemed credible by cybersecurity experts, although the source remains unknown — detail contracts to extract foreign data over eight years and describe targets within at least 20 foreign governments and territories, including India, Hong Kong, Thailand, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Taiwan and Malaysia. Indian publication BNN earlier reported on the documents.

“We rarely get such unfettered access to the inner workings of any intelligence operation,” said John Hultquist, chief analyst of Mandiant Intelligence, a cybersecurity firm owned by Google Cloud. “We have every reason to believe this is the authentic data of a contractor supporting global and domestic cyberespionage operations out of China,” he said.

U.S. intelligence officials see China as the greatest long-term threat to American security and have raised alarm about its targeted hacking campaigns.

Experts are poring over the documents, which offer an unusual glimpse inside the intense competition of China’s national security data-gathering industry — where rival outfits jockey for lucrative government contracts by pledging evermore devastating and comprehensive access to sensitive information deemed useful by Chinese police, military and intelligence agencies.

The documents come from iSoon, also known as Auxun, a Chinese firm headquartered in Shanghai that sells third-party hacking and data - gathering services to Chinese government bureaus, security groups and state - owned enterprises.

The trove does not include data extracted from Chinese hacking operations but lists targets and — in many cases — summaries of sample data amounts extracted and details on whether the hackers obtained full or partial control of foreign systems.

One spreadsheet listed 80 overseas targets that iSoon hackers appeared to have successfully breached. The haul included 95.2 gigabytes of immigration data from India and a 3 terabyte collection of call logs from South Korea’s LG U Plus telecom provider. The group also targeted other telecommunications firms in Hong Kong, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal and Taiwan. The Indian Embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment on the documents.

ISoon clients also requested or obtained infrastructure data, according to the leaked documents. The spreadsheet showed that the firm had a sample of 459GB of road - mapping data from Taiwan, the island of 23 million that China claims as its territory.

Road data could prove useful to the Chinese military in the event of an invasion of Taiwan, analysts said. “Understanding the highway terrain and location of bridges and tunnels is essential so you can move armored forces and infantry around the island in an effort to occupy Taiwan,” said Dmitri Alperovitch, a national security expert and chairman of Silverado Policy Accelerator, a think tank.

Among other targets were 10 Thai government agencies, including the country’s Foreign Ministry, intelligence agency and Senate. The spreadsheet notes that iSoon holds sample data extracted from those agencies from between 2020 and 2022. The Thai Embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment.

Most of the targets were in Asia, though iSoon received requests for hacks further afield. Chat logs included in the leak describe selling unspecified data related to NATO in 2022. It’s not clear whether the data was collected from publicly available sources or extracted in a hack.

“The Alliance faces persistent cyber threats and has prepared for this by investing in extensive cyber defences. NATO reviews every claim of cyber threats,” a NATO official said.

Another file shows employees discussing a list of targets in Britain, including its Home and Foreign offices as well as its Treasury. Also on the list were British think tanks Chatham House and the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

“In the current climate, we, along with many other organizations, are the target of regular attempted attacks from both state and non-state actors,” said a Chatham House spokesperson. The group is “naturally concerned” about the leaks but has protection measures in place, the spokesperson said.

Asked about the leaked documents, the U.K. Foreign Office declined to comment.

The hackers also facilitated attempts to extract information from close diplomatic partners including Pakistan and Cambodia.

China encourages hacking rivalry

ISoon is part of an ecosystem of contractors that emerged out of a “patriotic” hacking scene established over two decades ago. It now works for a range of powerful government entities including the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of State Security and the Chinese military.

According to U.S. officials, hackers with the People’s Liberation Army have breached computer systems in about two dozen key American infrastructure entities over the past year in an attempt to establish a foothold and be able to disrupt power and water utilities as well as communications and transportation systems.

China’s model of mixing state support with a profit incentive has created a large network of actors competing to exploit vulnerabilities and grow their businesses. The scale and persistence of their attacks are headaches for American technology giants like X, Microsoft and Apple, which are now locked in a constant race to outsmart the hackers.

All software products have vulnerabilities, and a robust global marketplace rewards those who find security weaknesses or develop tools known as exploits to take advantage of them. Many software vendors offer bounties to reward researchers who report security flaws, but government contractors in the United States and elsewhere often claim these exploits — paying more for the right to use them in espionage or offensive activity.

U.S. defense and intelligence contractors also develop tools for breaking into software, which are then used by federal officials in surveillance and espionage operations, or in offensive cyberweapons.

Chinese security researchers at private companies have demonstrably improved in recent years, winning a greater number of international hacking competitions as well as collecting more bounties from tech companies.

But the iSoon files contain complaints from disgruntled employees over poor pay and workload. Many hackers work for less than $1,000 a month, surprisingly low pay even in China, said Adam Kozy, a former FBI analyst who is writing a book on Chinese hacking.

The leaks hint at infighting and dissatisfaction in the network of patriotic Chinese hackers, despite the long-standing collaboration between groups.

Although it’s unclear who released the documents and why, cybersecurity experts said it may be an unhappy former employee or even a hack from a rival outfit.

The leaker presented themselves on GitHub as a whistleblower exposing malpractice, poor work conditions and “low quality” products that iSoon is using to “dupe” its government clients. In chats marked as featuring worker complaints, employees grumbled about sexism, long hours and weak sales.

Hackers for hire

Within China, these groups present themselves as essential to the Communist Party’s extensive campaign to eliminate threats to its rule from cyberspace.

China in recent years has escalated its efforts to trawl international public social media and trace targets abroad, though the crossover between public mass-monitoring and private hacking is often unclear.

ISoon has signed hundreds of deals with Chinese police that range from small jobs priced at $1,400 to multiyear contracts costing as much as $800,000, one spreadsheet showed.

The company’s leaked product manuals describe the services they offer and their prices, and boast about being able to steal data without detection. The product descriptions, targeted at state security clientele, at times use wartime language to describe a data-extraction mission underpinned by extreme threats to China’s national security.

“Information has increasingly become the lifeblood of a country and one of the resources that countries are scrambling to seize. In information warfare, stealing enemy information and destroying enemy information systems have become the key to defeating the enemy,” reads one document describing an iSoon package for sale that, it claims, would allow clients to access and covertly control Microsoft Outlook and Hotmail accounts by bypassing authentication protocols.

ISoon’s product manuals also advertise a $25,000 service for a “remote access” control system to obtain Apple iOS smartphone data from a target, including “basic mobile phone information, GPS positioning, mobile phone contacts” and “environment recording.”

One pitch advertised a service in which iSoon could efficiently conduct phishing campaigns against individuals or groups of Twitter users. Another outlined services that would allow the firm to remotely control targeted Windows and Mac operating systems.

Apple, Microsoft and X, formerly Twitter, did not respond to requests for comment.

Google said that the documents did not list specific vulnerabilities in its software. A spokesperson said the hackers were probably trying to get targets to install malicious software, which then persisted undetected.

In addition to striking long-term agreements, iSoon regularly worked on demand in response to requests from police in smaller Chinese cities and with private companies, according to pages of chat logs between the company’s top executives.

Sometimes the clients knew exactly what they wanted — for example, to find the identity of a specific Twitter user — but they also often made open-ended requests. In one exchange, employees discussed a request from a state security bureau in southern China asking if iSoon had much to offer on nearby Hong Kong. An iSoon employee suggested emails from Malaysia instead.

The scattershot approach appeared motivated in part by pressure from clients to deliver more and higher quality information. But despite the company boasting of cutting-edge capabilities, chats show that clients were regularly unimpressed with the hacked information.

ISoon repeatedly failed to extract data from government agencies, internal discussions showed, with some local authorities complaining about subpar intelligence.

Although some of iSoon’s services focused on domestic threats, the company often highlighted its ability to hack overseas targets in the region — including government departments in India and Nepal, as well as in overseas Tibetan organizations — to attract clients. In December 2021, the group claimed that it had gained access to the intranet of the Tibetan government in exile, setting off a frantic search for a buyer. Some 37 minutes later, the company had found an interested client.

Another product — priced at $55,600 per package — is meant to allow control and management of discussion on Twitter, including using phishing links to access and take over targeted accounts. ISoon claims the system then allows clients to find and respond to “illegal” and “reactionary sentiments” using accounts that are centrally controlled by the client to “manipulate discussion.”

The documents show that iSoon met and worked with members of APT41, a Chinese hacking group that was charged by the U.S. Justice Department in 2020 for targeting more than 100 video game firms, universities and other victims worldwide.

Afterward, iSoon’s founder and CEO, Wu Haibo, who goes by the alias “shutdown,” joked with another executive about going for “41” drinks with Chengdu 404 — the organization that APT41 is a part of — to celebrate them now being “verified by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.”

But chat messages between executives from 2022 suggest that relations between the groups had soured because iSoon was late in paying Chengdu 404 more than 1 million yuan ($140,000). Chengdu 404 later sued iSoon in a dispute over a software development contract.

Wu and his team appeared blasé about the idea that they would one day be charged by U.S. authorities like APT41. In July 2022, an executive asked Wu whether the company was being closely watched by the United States. “Not bothered,” Wu replied. “It was a matter of sooner or later anyway.”

Neither iSoon nor Wu responded to emailed requests for comment.

Pei-Lin Wu and Vic Chiang in Taipei and Lyric Li in Seoul contributed to this report.

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