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worm : stand-alone software program that spreads without requiring a host program
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-key-terms
Routers act as gateways to both internal and external networks, with the capability of blocking unauthorized access and filtering traffic when the router has a firewall installed in it.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Switches allow for network segmentation, and they can provide another layer of security by isolating traffic within VLANs.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Networks go far beyond basic components and include protocols and services that control how information is transmitted and received. These items may include advanced firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and intrusion prevention systems.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Key principles of network security include confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA) along with ensuring authentication, and authorization to track and monitor access.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Information security focuses on shielding information from unauthorized access and breaches, promoting confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. Alternatively, information privacy involves the proper handling, use, and storage of information and focuses more on the rights of individuals.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
There are several types of data that range broadly from simple files such as text messages, videos, and pictures to more sensitive types of data such as passwords, intellectual property, and personal data that require special handling and storage to promote safety.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Vulnerabilities range widely from poorly configured networks to poorly trained staff weak in areas such as social engineering.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Robust antivirus, anti-malware solutions, and intrusion detection systems are foundational technologies and solutions critical for protecting information and networks against a multitude of cyber threats.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Understanding the nature of malware, social engineering, insider threats, DDoS attacks, and software and hardware vulnerabilities enables the identification of potential security threats and the selection of targeted countermeasures such as employee training and regular software patching.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Regular penetration testing and vulnerability assessments are vital in recognizing security flaws, allowing for the proactive remediation of threats and the reinforcement of an organization’s cyber defenses.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Secure computing and risk management best practices involve conducting regular security assessments and enforcing access control policies to safeguard organizational assets effectively.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
While the cyber domain may be vast, there are several regulatory frameworks, such as GDPR and CCPA that provide protection for consumers from data mishandling, theft, and exploitation.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Ethical considerations in cybersecurity, such as those involving ethical hacking, demonstrate the importance of employing security skills for defensive purposes, supported by a strict code of ethics to prevent misuse of expertise.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
An effective ISRM strategy integrates risk identification, protection mechanisms, incident response, and recovery strategies, and it is underpinned by continuous monitoring and improvement.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
A comprehensive risk management plan encompasses the identification of potential threats, assessment of vulnerabilities, implementation of protective controls, and continuous evaluation to mitigate risks to the organization’s information assets.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Compliance frameworks such as COBIT5 by ISACA and regulations such as NIST’s standards provide structured guidelines and best practices that organizations can use to align their ISRM strategies with industry requirements and improve their security posture.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Continuous monitoring and improvement are vital to an organization’s ISRM strategy, ensuring that the organization can adapt to new threats, leverage emerging technologies, and refine defenses in line with the changing security landscape.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
The chief information security officer (CISO) oversees an organization’s overall security strategy, developing policies and managing the protection of IT infrastructure, including incident response planning.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Information security is an interdisciplinary field involving several sectors, such as IT, business, law, and psychology. This combination of disciplines is driven by the evolving nature of cyber threats and requires IT security professionals to be highly adaptable or have knowledge that spans several domains of IT.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Earning certifications validates a professional’s expertise and dedication to the field of cybersecurity. These certifications can be pivotal for career progression, moving professionals into specialized roles or leadership positions within information security.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
While entry-level certifications provide foundational knowledge, advanced certifications and degrees demonstrate a candidate’s broad and deep knowledge of information security as well as their suitability for taking on high-level managerial roles that involve overseeing an organization’s security strategy and IT te...
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
Cybersecurity careers are not limited to the IT industry; they are critical in diverse sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and education. This is due to the increasing reliance on digital systems and the imperative to protect against growing cybersecurity threats in all areas of commerce and society.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/5-summary
accountability : principle that people and entities must take responsibility for the decisions they make and be able to explain them
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
action plan : detailed outline of steps to be taken to achieve a particular goal, often aimed at mitigating risk or improving performance
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
audit : process of evaluating the adequacy, effectiveness, and adherence to prescribed procedures, protocols, or standards
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
bad actor : person or entity who hacks or cracks into a computer or system with malicious intent
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) : law that increases privacy rights and consumer protection for residents of California
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
certification body : organization accredited to assess and certify the conformity of companies and organizations to specific standards, ensuring they meet the established criteria in their industry or sector
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
compliance : adherence to laws, regulations, and policies governing an industry or operation
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
consent : in the context of data protection, explicit permission given by an individual for the collection, processing, and use of their personal information
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
cyber espionage : use of online methods to obtain secret or confidential information without the permission of the holder of the information, typically for strategic, military, or political advantage
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
data breach : unauthorized access to confidential data, often leading to the exposure of sensitive information
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
data center : facility used to house computer systems and related components, such as telecommunications and storage systems
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
data mapping tool : software application or platform that enables data professionals to automate the process of mapping data fields, attributes, or elements from source systems to target systems or destinations
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
data minimization : principle that organizations should only collect, process, and store the minimum amount of personal data necessary for its purpose
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
data privacy : rights and practices around the proper collection, storage, and use of personal information
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
data protection impact assessment (DPIA) : process to help identify and minimize the data protection risks of a project
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
data security : protection of data from unauthorized access, corruption, or theft
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
digital divide : gap between individuals, communities, or countries that have access to modern information and communication technologies and those that do not
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
error handling : process in software and systems design where potential errors are systematically managed and addressed to prevent system failures and security breaches, and to provide meaningful feedback to users
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
gap analysis : method for comparing current policies, protocols, or performance metrics against desired goals or industry standards to identify areas for improvement
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) : comprehensive data protection law in the European Union that sets guidelines for the collection and processing of personal information of individuals within the EU
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
identity theft : act of stealing someone’s information and assuming their identity
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
IEEE 2413 : architectural framework for IoT developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) to standardize and promote cross-domain interaction
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
input validation : process of checking inputs received from users or from other systems for their data type, length, format, and range
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
Internet of Things (IoT) : network that connects everyday physical objects to the internet, enabling them to collect and share data with other devices or systems
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
ISO/IEC 27701 : extension to the ISO/IEC 27001 and ISO/IEC 27002 standards that provides guidelines for establishing, implementing, and maintaining a privacy information management system
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
least privilege principle : cybersecurity practice where users are granted the minimum levels of access, or permissions, needed to perform their job functions, reducing the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
physical security : measures and systems used to protect people, property, and physical assets from external threats such as theft, vandalism, and natural disasters
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
policy : defined guidelines and procedures established by an organization to regulate actions and ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
Privacy by Design : privacy by design concept and approach in system engineering and data handling practices that integrates privacy and data protection measures from the very beginning of the design process, rather than as an afterthought
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
privacy engineering : incorporating privacy principles directly into the design and development of IT systems, networks, and business practices
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
privacy information management system (PIMS) : framework or set of policies and procedures used by an organization to manage personal data and ensure compliance with privacy laws and regulations
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
regulatory framework : structure of rules and guidelines, often legislated, within which an industry or business must operate
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
remote auditing : modern auditing method that uses digital tools and technologies for assessing systems, processes, and policies when in-person visits are not feasible
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
risk assessment : process of identifying potential risks that could negatively impact an organization’s assets and business operations and evaluating the potential negative outcomes and the likelihood of them occurring
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
secure device onboarding : process that involves adding devices to a network in a secure manner to prevent unauthorized access and protect the integrity of the network
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
social responsibility : in a business context, the obligation of companies to act in ways that benefit society and the environment beyond what is legally required
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
third-party access : ability for external entities or applications, not part of the primary institution, to access certain data or functionalities
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
transparency : openness, communication, and accountability, wherein actions and decisions are clear and understandable to stakeholders
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-key-terms
Data privacy and security involve protecting data from unauthorized access and ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability; they are essential for maintaining trust and reputation, preventing financial loss, and reducing operational risks in enterprises.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
The transition of businesses to digital platforms has increased the susceptibility of information to breaches and unauthorized disclosures, emphasizing the impact of enterprise security and risk policies on data privacy in a digital landscape.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
Data privacy and security have transcended being mere IT issues to become crucial elements of strategic planning for businesses, necessitating significant investment in data security measures and privacy protocols to maintain customer trust and comply with regulations.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
The growing awareness and concern among consumers about their data privacy means businesses must enhance their data protection efforts, as consumers are increasingly likely to switch away from companies with poor data practices.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
Security policies extend to managing risks associated with third parties such as cloud service providers and data analytics firms, requiring regular audits, and secure data handling agreements.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
Data privacy regulations and standards, both regional and international, ensure the safeguarding of personal information and provide a standardized approach for businesses to manage data privacy.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
The rapid advancement of digital technologies, including IoT and mobile, has introduced significant vulnerabilities.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
The expansion of IoT and web applications has integrated technology into every facet of modern life, increasing the responsibility of enterprises and IT professionals to ethically manage and secure these interconnected ecosystems.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
Security strategies include both preventive and reactive measures intended to combat security threats in web and IoT technologies, preparing future IT professionals to effectively protect digital environments.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
Regulatory frameworks and standards developed by organizations such as ISO and IEEE are essential for enhancing security, interoperability, and quality in the digital ecosystem, particularly in the underregulated IoT sector and its global reach.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
The ISO/IEC 27001 standard is a key global framework for data security and privacy. It serves as an international regulation that sets specific requirements for information security management systems (ISMSs).
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
The global landscape of data security and privacy is a combination of intricate regulations, standards, and best practices that reflects the diverse concerns of different regions and industries. It is in a perpetual state of evolution.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
Some of the most well-known standards are the globally recognized COBIT 2019 Framework, the Enterprise Privacy Risk Management Framework, ISO/IEC 27701, and the NIST Privacy Framework.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
While the United States has put in place various agencies and standards to oversee data protection, other countries across Asia, South America, Africa, as well as various industries have crafted similar frameworks to safeguard user information.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
The case study provides important insights on the strategic importance of global certifications, the need for flexibility, and the value of expert auditors in navigating global regulations and frameworks.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
Enterprises can significantly benefit from conducting an audit and gap analysis to determine compliance with global frameworks, a critical process that helps identify discrepancies between current data security and privacy practices and industry-wide best practices or regulatory requirements. A gap analysis is invaluab...
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
Introducing new data privacy and protection policies is a critical step for any organization aiming for GDPR compliance. These policies undergo a thorough legal review to ensure they meet GDPR standards and are also vetted internally across various departments to check for operational feasibility and effectiveness.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
To ensure company-wide compliance, it’s essential to conduct comprehensive employee training on new data protection policies. This involves a mix of e-learning courses, live workshops, regular updates, and, for certain roles, specific certification programs to ensure that every member of the organization understands ...
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
Continuous improvement is key in GDPR compliance, which involves regular policy reviews, automated compliance monitoring, and audits. Equally important is transparent and effective communication with end users regarding any policy changes to maintain trust and compliance.
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/6-summary
bare metal server : physical server that is deployed for a single business that provides the business full access to the server resources
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
business continuity : plan that an organization puts in place to maintain its operational status in an emergency scenario
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
capital expenditure : cost for the acquisition of assets
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
cloud computing : (also, the cloud) information technology resources that are available through the internet on an on-demand or pay-as-you-go basis without the users needing to manage it
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
cloud consumer : entity that uses and maintains access to computing resources of a cloud provider
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
cloud provider : company that provides on-demand services such as data storage, applications, and infrastructure in a platform accessible through the internet
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
commercial off-the-shelf : commercially produced software or hardware that is available for sale and ready to install and use without customization
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
Communication as a Service (CaaS) : service that allows for the cloud-based delivery of services such as Voice over Internet Protocol, videoconferencing, and internet-based telecommunication services
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
community cloud : infrastructure shared by multiple organizations with a common interest
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
customer relationship management (CRM) : application that organizations use to manage customer interactions and lead management, and perform analytics
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
cybersecurity specialist : person who identifies and develops security strategies, verifies needed security improvements, and implements security strategies for an organization
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
data migration tool : software-based tool that is designed to move data from one data repository to another
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
Database as a Service (DBaaS) : service that gives cloud consumers the ability to manage and maintain relational and nonrelational databases
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
delivery model : resources offered by a cloud provider
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
deployment model : location, method, and entity responsible for controlling the infrastructure
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
disaster recovery : process an organization follows to reestablish operational status after an incident causes a system failure
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
elastic storage : ability for a cloud storage resource to expand or collapse based on demand
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
end user : entity that makes use of the technology provided by an organization
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
Firewall as a Service (FWaaS) : cybersecurity service that a cloud provider offers to protect the perimeter of a company’s network
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms
home-grown application : software that is developed for an organization in-house, based on the development requirements of the organization
https://openstax.org/books/foundations-information-systems/pages/7-key-terms