2. Security Basics

1. Introduction to Security

Security is a critical aspect of our operations. This section aims to equip you with the knowledge to protect our assets and data. Understanding and implementing good security practices help us maintain the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of our systems and information.

2. Common Threats

• Phishing Attacks

  • What is Phishing?: Phishing is a technique used by cybercriminals to trick individuals into providing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details, by pretending to be a trustworthy entity in electronic communications.
  • How to Recognize Phishing Emails: Look for suspicious email addresses, generic greetings, unsolicited attachments, and urgent requests for personal information.
  • Prevention Tips: Never click on links or download attachments from unknown or untrusted sources. Always verify the sender’s identity before responding.

• Malware

  • Types of Malware: Viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and adware.
  • How Malware Spreads: Through infected email attachments, malicious websites, compromised downloads, and removable media.
  • Prevention Tips: Use antivirus software, keep your systems updated, avoid downloading software from untrusted sources, and be cautious when opening email attachments.

• Social Engineering

  • What is Social Engineering?: The use of deception to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential or personal information that may be used for fraudulent purposes.
  • Common Tactics: Pretexting, baiting, quid pro quo, and tailgating.
  • Prevention Tips: Always verify the identity of individuals requesting sensitive information, be skeptical of unsolicited requests, and educate yourself about common social engineering tactics.

3. Security Best Practices

• Password Management

  • Creating Strong Passwords: Use a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid common words and easily guessable information.
  • Password Managers: Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
  • Regular Updates: Change your passwords regularly and avoid reusing the same password across different accounts.

• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

  • What is 2FA?: An additional layer of security requiring not only a password and username but also something that only the user has on them, such as a physical token or a mobile app.
  • Enabling 2FA: Steps to set up 2FA on your accounts, including popular platforms and services that support it.
  • Benefits of 2FA: Enhanced security by making it harder for attackers to gain access to your accounts even if they have your password.

• Data Encryption

  • Importance of Encryption: Ensures that data is only accessible to authorized users and protects sensitive information from being intercepted.
  • Encryption Methods: Various encryption techniques, including symmetric and asymmetric encryption.
  • Implementing Encryption: How to encrypt data on your devices and during transmission.

• Secure Browsing

  • Using HTTPS: Ensuring that websites you visit use HTTPS to encrypt the data transmitted between your browser and the server.
  • Avoiding Malicious Websites: Recognizing and avoiding phishing and malicious websites.
  • Browser Security Settings: Configuring your browser’s security settings to enhance protection against threats.

4. Incident Response

• Reporting Incidents
  • Types of Incidents to Report: Unauthorized access, data breaches, malware infections, phishing attempts, and any other suspicious activity.
  • How to Report: Detailed steps for reporting security incidents, including who to contact and what information to provide.
  • Confidentiality Assurance: Ensuring that reports are handled confidentially and that reporters are protected from retaliation.