Computer and Data Security

What this unit covers

The resources here deal with keeping computers and data safe. Many are mind maps. The Threats to Data map covers identity theft, malware, hacking, phishing, accidental damage and opportunist threats, such as someone finding an unattended computer and trying to view or steal what they can. The Cyber security map goes further into cyber attacks, unauthorised access and fake emails pretending to come from a bank.

Where to start

Begin with the threats. Open Threats to Data, then Cyber security. Next, look at defences with Anti-malware software, which explains how anti-virus tools scan files that are opened or downloaded from the internet or a memory stick.

1. Read a threats map first.
2. Move to protection methods, such as the maps on backup and recovery and on protecting ICT systems.
3. Finish with encryption and the wider ideas of data protection.

Going deeper

The Cryptography map is the most technical. It splits asymmetric and symmetric methods, and names block and stream algorithms such as DES, AES, RC4 and RSA. It suits students who want more than the basics. The flashcard deck on OCR Computer Science system security asks direct questions, such as what malware is and what a worm does. The deck called ICT Revision Flash Cards covers physical and software security methods and data encryption.

Using quizzes and maps together

Read a map, close it, then take a quiz. The Viruses. and Virus Quiz quizzes ask about worms, Trojans, spyware, cookies and phishing. Wrong answers show you which branch of the map to reread. Then go back to the flashcards to fix the terms in your memory.

Where it fits

This unit sits in the Security, Safety, Ethics and Society strand of Computing and ICT. Teachers can set a map as a starter or a quiz as a quick check. Choose one resource today and see how much you can recall from it.