Computer Security and Cybersecurity

Vocabulary flashcards for reviewing computer security concepts.

Computer Security

Protection of computer systems and data, covering both physical and digital security, guarding against unauthorized access, protecting hardware, software, and data, and ensuring services run smoothly.

Physical Security

Protecting actual computers and equipment.

Cybersecurity

Protecting digital information.

IT Security

Combination of both physical and cyber protection.

Data Centers

Buildings where important computer systems are stored.

Threat

A potential danger that can harm computer systems or data, either accidentally or intentionally (e.g., natural disasters, human errors, malicious attacks).

Vulnerability

Weaknesses in a system that can exist at the network, host, or application level, and can be found in software design, security practices, or user behavior.

Attack

Actions that exploit vulnerabilities to carry out threats, ranging from simple password guessing to complex malware or social engineering tricks.

Countermeasures

Security steps to protect systems by fixing vulnerabilities and preventing attacks, including better software design, strong passwords, and security updates.

Hacking

Unauthorized system access that uses security weaknesses, often targeting websites to steal private information, and may involve special hacking tools.

Data Misuse

Includes copying data without permission, stealing personal information, taking company secrets, sharing private files, and using others' work without credit.

Copyright Violation

Illegal copying of software, music, movies, or books, and sharing copyrighted files online, breaking copyright laws.

Email Abuse

Includes email spam, spreading rumors, and harassment.

Identity Theft

Involves credit card fraud, fake online stores, money scams, and counterfeit money printing.

Computer Virus

Harmful programs that spread between computers, destroying files, stealing information, and slowing down systems.

The Computer Misuse Act

Makes hacking illegal, protects against data theft, stops unauthorized changes.

Data Protection

Laws that protect personal information, limit how data can be used, give rights to individuals, require secure storage, and prevent misuse.

Copyright Protection

Protects creative works, covers digital content, stops illegal sharing, and applies to writing, music, movies, and software.