Cyber Attacks and Internet Basics

A compilation of key terms and their definitions related to cyber attacks and internet concepts.

Pretexting

Deceiving by pretending to be someone else.

Phishing

Obtaining unauthorized access to data via email.

Spoofing

Someone pretending to be someone else.

Sniffing

Intercepting computer communications.

Usurping

Invading a computer system and replacing legitimate programs with unauthorized programs.

Malware

Software designed to disrupt or damage computers, including viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, and adware.

Bot

A program that automates tasks on the internet, often used for malicious purposes.

Honeypots

False targets set up to lure cyber criminals.

Firewall

A security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic.

Encryption

The process of converting information into a code to prevent unauthorized access.

ISP (Internet Service Provider)

A business that provides individuals and organizations access to the Internet.

Bandwidth

The amount of data that can be transmitted over a network in a given amount of time.

TLD (Top-Level Domain)

The last segment of a domain name, which follows the final dot (e.g., .com, .edu).

Web Server

A computer that delivers requested web pages to users.

Protocol

A standard that defines a set of rules for communication between computers.

URL (Uniform Resource Locator)

The address of a resource on the internet.

VoIP (Voice over IP)

A technology that allows users to make voice calls using the internet.

Netiquette

The code of acceptable Internet behavior.

LAN (Local Area Network)

A network within a limited area such as a home or office.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

A network that spans a large geographic area, often connecting multiple LANs.