In this modern digital world, most of our everyday activities rely on the internet. Various forms of entertainment, communication, work-related and financial tasks are accomplished online. This article shares the basics of internet security as well as the advantages and disadvantages of internet security.
This means that tons of sensitive information and data are constantly being shared over the internet. With a high risk of intrusion by cybercriminals and hackers, internet security should be a top priority for both businesses and individuals alike.
Contents
What is Internet Security?
Internet security refers to a range of security tactics and strategies that protects your activities and transactions over the internet. These strategies are meant to protect you against internet threats such as malicious software that can infect and damage your computer, hacking into your email addresses, and identity theft that steals personal data including credit card and bank account data.
Internet security is considered a specific aspect of larger concepts such as computer security and cybersecurity, being focused on specific vulnerabilities and threats on the use of the internet and online access.
Advantages of Internet Security
- Protects you against identity theft
- Protects your computer against worms, viruses, spyware, and other harmful programs
- Gives privacy while using the internet
- Minimizes computer crashes and freezing
- Inspire confidence while surfing the internet
Disadvantages of Internet Security
- Internet security can be difficult to set up if you don’t know what you’re doing
- Incorrectly configured firewalls can block you from performing certain actions over the internet
- Internet security software requires regular update
- Can be costly for the average user
Different Types of Internet Security Threats
Although the internet offers convenience and lots of services and information, it also makes you vulnerable to several risks. Cyberattacks are only increasing in volume and sophistication.
Although the list of potential threats is extensive, some of the common internet security threats include:
1. Malware
Malware is short for malicious software which includes viruses, ransomware, worms, and spyware. Malware is activated when you click on a malicious attachment or link, leading to the installation of this dangerous software.
2. Phishing
Phishing scams are created by cybercriminals trying to solicit sensitive or private information. They use fake communication such as email to trick you into opening it and carrying out the instructions provided such as providing your bank account information.
3. DoS
Short for denial of service, a DoD attack floods a network or computer so that it can’t respond to requests. DDoS or distributed DoS does the same thing; however, the attack originates from a computer network.
Several techniques are used and some cybercriminals use the time that the network is disabled to launch other attacks.
4. Botnet
A botnet, also known as a zombie system, is actually a type of DDoS in which millions of computers and systems can be infected with malware and controlled y a cybercriminal.
5. Man in the Middle
A man-in-the-middle or MITM attack happens when hackers insert themselves in a 2-party transaction. Once they interrupted the traffic, hackers can filter and steal data. This type of attack usually occurs when you use an unsecured public Wi-Fi network.
6. Pharming
Pharming is a more advanced version of a phishing attack, exploiting the DNS system. Cybercriminals often create a website or web page that mimics a trustworthy business, like an online banking log-in page. Users are tricked into entering their details, thinking that they’re logging in to their usual service. However, their details will be stolen by hackers.
Internet Security Solutions To Protect Yourself
There are several internet security software and product available to help keep your internet usage safe and secure. These include:
1. Antivirus Software Solutions
Antivirus software is a program specifically created to help in preventing, detecting and removing computer viruses and malware and helps protect you when using the internet. Antivirus software runs as a background process, consistently scanning your computer and servers to detect and restrict the spread of malware.
2. Firewall
Firewalls are network security device that monitors and filters outgoing and incoming network traffic based on a set of security rules. It protects you against outside cyber attackers by shielding your internet or computer from unnecessary or malicious network traffic. It also helps prevent malware from accessing your network or computer via the internet.
3. Password Manager
A password manager is an application designed to safely store and manage your online credentials. In general, these passwords are kept in an encrypted database, usually in the cloud, and is locked with a master password. With a password manager, you don’t have to memorize your passwords for several web applications and pages anymore and prevent you from using the same password across web pages you frequently use.
4. VPNs
Short for Virtual Private Network, VPNs allow you to establish a protected internet connection when using public networks. This program encrypts your internet traffic and hides your online identity. As a result, third parties won’t be able to easily track your online activities and steal data.
5. Endpoint security suites
Endpoint security refers to the practice of securing entry points or endpoints of user devices such as mobile, laptops, and desktops from being exploited by malicious campaigns and actors. Endpoint security systems have evolved from the traditional antivirus solutions to offer more comprehensive protection against sophisticated malware and viruses and the evolving zero-hour threats.
FAQ’s
How do I ensure Internet security?
There are several ways to ensure internet security. You can use VPN while surfing the web, limit the personal information you’re sharing online and be careful on where and what you’re clicking. To boost internet protection, it is also recommended that you use internet security software.
What are the best internet security solutions?
There are several internet security software available today. Some of your best options include Norton, MacAfee, Kaspersky Bitdefender, ESET, and Trend Micro.
Conclusion
And there you have it!
As you can see, internet security is a central aspect of cybersecurity. It includes managing cyber threats and vulnerabilities associated with using the Internet, including risk management on web browsers, networks, web apps, and websites.
With the right internet security solutions and strategies, you can protect yourself from attacks that occur over the internet.