Cybersecurity is the use of technology and programs to protect systems, programs, devices, and networks from digital attacks (Singer & Friedman, 2014). It aims at minimizing the risk of unauthorized access or exploitation of systems. Cybersecurity has many applications in the workplace. Firstly, cybersecurity is used to protect data. Data in the workplace may include usernames, passwords, emails, internal memos, and reports. Data such as usernames and passwords are only intended to be personal thus is sensitive and must be protected. Therefore, cybersecurity helps secure this data to ensure no one else can access it. Secondly, it helps protect devices from attacks. Employees in the workplace use various technological devices such as computers and mobile phones. Cybersecurity helps protect these devices from external attacks to protect personal and work-related information. Thirdly, it helps protect networks. Most workplaces require to be connected to the internet through public networks. Data transferred through these networks is at a high risk of access through cyberattacks. Cybersecurity helps monitor and protect any data passing through such networks by using VPNs and firewalls to prevent sabotage (Singer & Friedman, 2014). Furthermore, it helps ensure privacy in the workplace. For example, personal information posted in company profiles is at risk of external access. Cybersecurity helps protect employees’ personal information, thus keeping their lives private and confidential.
Cybersecurity applications are unlimited as long as there is a technological device connected to the internet. Therefore, cybersecurity is also applied at home to secure devices and systems. Firstly, it is used to secure mobile phones and tablets used by family members. Most people use smartphones and tablets to browse or access social media apps. Cybersecurity helps prevent attacks on their devices by monitoring and filtering malicious programs. Secondly, it secures home systems from malicious attacks (Alshboul et al., 2021). Most homes are fitted with a home automation program to control doors, air conditioning, heat, lights, and CCTVs. These devices are susceptible to attacks if an attacker gains access to the home automation system. Cybersecurity helps protect these devices from attacks or malfunctioning, thereby keeping homes running properly (Alshboul et al., 2021). Thirdly, it helps protect home networks. Most homes are connected to the internet through the local area network (LAN). Such a network can be hacked, and cybercriminals can access the data flowing through it. However, cybersecurity helps prevent such attacks by monitoring data traffic flow and protecting data packets on the network (Singer & Friedman, 2014). Furthermore, it helps protect user accounts from external access. Most people have accounts from different websites or apps on their local computers and smartphones. These accounts are prone to access by cybercriminals. However, cybersecurity helps prevent sabotage or eavesdropping by denying after several failed login attempts. This helps prevent illegal access since only the right user can access the accounts.
Cybersecurity risk refers to the amount of loss due to a cyberattack. Cybersecurity has many risks both at home and in the workplace. Firstly, cybersecurity can result in a massive data breach. A cyberattack can result in loss of user information or corruption of user files (Singer & Friedman, 2014). In addition, it can cause harm to the user. For example, a malicious attacker can cause a fire after accessing the home automation system, thus causing harm to the target (Alshboul et al., 2021). Moreover, it can reduce the reputation of a brand. Cyberattacks can bring down a company as customers lose faith in its security measures. Finally, it can be costly to a company. Some attackers request millions of money as ransom. This is costly to a company and can lead to its end. Cybersecurity is a critical aspect of the internet. Individuals should learn and apply all security measures to prevent cyberattacks. Companies should invest in cybersecurity experts to protect their data and networks from malicious attacks (Singer & Friedman, 2014). This can help eliminate the risks of a cyberattack.
References
Alshboul, Y., Bsoul, A. A. R., Al Zamil, M., & Samarah, S. (2021). Cybersecurity of Smart Home Systems: Sensor Identity Protection. Journal of Network and Systems Management, 29(3), 1-27. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10922-021-09586-9
Singer, P. W., & Friedman, A. (2014). Cybersecurity: What everyone needs to know. oup usa. 0199918090, 9780199918096
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