network security

byMKearns

7.6K followers

6 years ago

This is an area that's near and dear to my heart! I completed a course of study in Network (cyber) Security part-time from 2004-2010. I took this primarily for edification but was surprisingly able to use it in obtaining a security analyst position with Northrop Grumman.

The course covered topics mentioned in this informational and concentrated on the threat structures. Discussed were Botnets, social engineering, worms, viruses, phishing attempts, general malware and other components of the cyber threat landscape.

I used a program called Arc Sight which assisted in targeting infected URL's. I found that streaming media was especially susceptible to malware infection. Both aural and visual apps and media were intensively susceptible to infection.

Much of the information covered here is traditional but some is germane to the times since I completed my course.

• Threat 1 - social engineering - We are our own worse enemies. Do you use a shredder to prevent such activities as dumpster diving where addresses can be pulled from trash? In a work environment, Do you secure doors behind you to prevent piggy backing (some one following behind you) before the door is shut?
• Threat 2 - internal threats- Largely caused by disgruntled employees or ex employees with covert knowledge. Many people develop a chip on their shoulders as a result of perceived or real offenses. A reason for proper vetting and examination of security clearances. 3 out of 5 employees that fall into this category in 2014 is appalling!
• Threat 3 - bring your own device (BYOD) - Especially in the mobile device era this is rampantly allowed by many employers This sort of casual insertion of your own device has grown. I was amazed at current in flight travel as I learned that "airplane mode" means your wireless mobile device is attuned to friendly in flight frequencies. Nothing is plugged in anymore. You carry it on board with you.
• Threat 4 and 5 greater numbers and methods of attacks and the special category of botnets. Infection of large numbers of servers is called pharming after the server farms or clusters being infected

This should give an impression of the world that Site Support goes through. Also, an appreciation of the type of threat structure that is dealt with here at Wealthy Affiliate.