What’s info security?

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Information security is the process of protecting the availability, privacy, and integrity of data. While the term often describes measures and methods for increasing computer security, it also refers to the protection of any kind of important data, such as personal diaries or the classified plot details of an upcoming book. No security system is foolproof, but taking basic and practical steps to protect your data is critical to good information security.

Password protection

Using passwords is one of the most basic ways to improve information security. This measure reduces the number of people who have easy access to information, as only those with approved codes can reach them. Unfortunately, passwords aren’t foolproof, and hacking programs can execute millions of possible codes in seconds. Passwords can also be cracked negligently, such as by leaving a public computer logged into an account or by using a code that is too simple, such as “password” or “1234”.

To make logging in as secure as possible, users should create passwords that use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols, and avoid easily guessable combinations such as birthdays or last names. People shouldn’t write down passwords on paper left near the computer and should use different passwords for each account. For added security, a computer user might consider switching to a new password every few months.

Virus and malware protection
One way hackers gain access to protected information is through malware, which includes computer viruses, spyware, worms, and other programs. These pieces of code are installed on computers to steal information, limit usability, record user actions or destroy data. Using powerful antivirus software is one of the best ways to improve information security. Antivirus programs scan your system for known malicious software, and most will alert you if you are on a web page that contains a potential virus. Most programs will also scan your entire system on command, identifying and destroying any malicious objects.

Most operating systems include a basic antivirus program that will help protect your computer to some extent. The safest programs are usually those that are available for a monthly subscription or a one-time fee and can be downloaded online or purchased in a store. Antivirus software can also be downloaded for free online, although these programs may offer fewer features and less protection than paid versions.
Even the best antivirus programs usually need to be updated regularly to keep up with new malware, and most software notifies you when a new update is available for download. However, users should be aware of the name and contact method of each antivirus program they own, as some viruses impersonate security programs to trick an unsuspecting user into downloading and installing more malware. Running a full computer scan on a weekly basis is a good way to get rid of potentially harmful programs.
firewall
A firewall helps keep computer information secure by preventing unauthorized access to a network. There are several ways to do this, including limiting the types of data allowed into and out of the network, redirecting network information through a proxy server to hide the real address of the computer, or monitoring data characteristics to determine if it is trustworthy . In essence, firewalls filter the information that passes through them, allowing only authorized content to enter. You can block specific websites, protocols (such as File Transfer Protocol or FTP), and even speech, as well as outside access to computers inside your firewall.
Most computer operating systems come with a firewall program pre-installed, but standalone programs can also be purchased for additional security options. Together with an antivirus package, firewalls significantly increase information security by reducing the possibility of a hacker gaining access to private data. Without a firewall, protected data is more vulnerable to attack.
Codes and ciphers
Data encryption is one of the oldest methods of protecting written information. Governments and military organizations often use encryption systems to ensure that secret messages are unreadable if intercepted by the wrong person. Encryption methods can include simple substitution ciphers, such as changing each letter for a corresponding number, or more complex systems that require complicated algorithms for decryption. As long as the code method is kept secret, encryption can be a good basic method of information security.
On computer systems, there are several ways to encrypt data to make it more secure. With a symmetric key system, only the sender and recipient have the code that allows the data to be read. Public-key or asymmetric encryption involves the use of two keys: one publicly available so anyone can encrypt data with it, and one private so only the person with that key can read the data that’s been encrypted. The secure socket layers use digital certificates, which confirm that connected computers are who they say they are, and symmetric and asymmetric keys to encrypt information that is passed between computers.
Legal liability
Businesses and industries can also maintain information security by using privacy laws. Workers at a company that handles protected data may be required to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), which prohibit them from disclosing or discussing classified topics. If an employee attempts to give or sell secrets to a competitor or other unapproved source, the company can use the NDA as a reason for a legal proceeding. The use of liability laws can help companies preserve their brands, internal processes and research with some degree of trust.
Training and common sense
One of the greatest dangers to computer data security is human error or ignorance. Those responsible for using or managing a computer network must be carefully trained to avoid accidentally opening the system to hackers. In the workplace, creating a training program that includes information about existing security measures and the permitted and prohibited use of computers can reduce internal security breaches. Family members on a home network should be educated about running virus scans, identifying potential Internet threats, and protecting personal information online.
In business and personal behavior, the importance of maintaining information security through caution and common sense cannot be underestimated. A person who provides personal information, such as a home address or telephone number, without considering the consequences, could soon find themselves a victim of scams, spam and identity theft. Similarly, a company that doesn’t establish a robust chain of command to protect data or provide inadequate security training for workers creates an unstable security system. By taking the time to ensure that data is distributed with care and to trusted sources, the risk of a security breach can be greatly reduced.

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