Threats to data

Threats to data

1. opportunist threats

   • where people go onto a logged on computer and damage information

2. computer virus

   • These are small programs which can replicate themselves and spread from computer to computer.

3. other malware

   • examples=computer worms (essentially a computer virus which does not need to attach itself to a file or message)

4. phishing

   • This is a type of threat which attempts to gain access to passwords, financial details and other such privileged information.

5. Accidental damage

   • caused by natural disaster

6. Importance of security

   • An attack could result in some form of loss (data or financial) to an individual, organisation and/or society.
     • Organisations which trade online have to build up a reputation for being a secure organisation with secure network access.
       • When an organisation’s secrets are spread to competitors or to the wider public, any particular advantage the organisation has will be lost
         • Identity theft could cause problems with obtaining loans and other contractual agreements
           • Disclosure of information could cause legal problems. A company can be sued by its customers if it sells their personal information or fails to protect it properly.