The role of lead network security administrator within an organization
Assume the role of lead network security administrator within an organization. Students will then be required to provide instruction pertaining to identifying holes in security countermeasures to newly hired network security technicians. This provides students with experience in not only evaluating vulnerabilities in a network, but also conveying this knowledge to subordinates. These are valuable skills that will be needed in order to design an information assurance plan and ultimately explain its intent to members of the organization.
Prompt
Assume that you are the lead network security expert in your organization. Because of the recent rise in web security issues and the development of the global marketplace, your organization has decided to hire additional network security technicians. Once hired, you are to give a report to these individuals designed to illustrate holes in current security countermeasures, along with ways in which these holes can be filled. In your report, ensure you address the areas mentioned below:
An explanation of which web security threats are most prevalent, the hazards they present, and how these threats are exploiting holes in current security countermeasures
An explanation of the actions that should be taken to prevent existing web security countermeasures from being exploited
An assessment of the pros and cons of choosing to implement measures such as firewalls, access control measures, and crypto graphic systems
Sample Solution
Web security is the practice of protecting websites, web applications, and their underlying infrastructure from attack. Web security threats are constantly evolving, and it is important to be aware of the latest threats in order to protect your organization.
Most Prevalent Web Security Threats
The following are some of the most prevalent web security threats:
- Phishing attacks: Phishing attacks are a type of social engineering attack in which the attacker sends an email or text message that appears to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or credit card company. The email or text message will often contain a link that, when clicked, will take the victim to a fake website that looks like the real website. Once the victim enters their personal information on the fake website, the attacker can steal it
Full Answer Section
- lware attacks: Malware is software that is designed to harm a computer system. Malware can be installed on a computer through a variety of ways, such as clicking on a malicious link, opening an infected attachment, or downloading a file from an untrusted source. Once malware is installed on a computer, it can steal personal information, damage files, or take control of the computer.
- Zero-day attacks: A zero-day attack is an attack that exploits a vulnerability in software that the software vendor is not aware of. Zero-day attacks are often very difficult to defend against because there is no patch available to fix the vulnerability.
- DDoS attacks: A DDoS attack is an attack that floods a website or web application with so much traffic that it becomes unavailable to legitimate users. DDoS attacks can be carried out by a single attacker or by a group of attackers working together.
- SQL injection attacks: SQL injection attacks are a type of attack that exploits vulnerabilities in web applications that use SQL databases. SQL injection attacks can be used to steal data from a database, modify data in a database, or even take control of a database.
- Data breaches: Data breaches can result in the theft of personal information, such as credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, and passwords. This information can then be used by criminals to commit identity theft or other crimes.
- Financial losses: Web security threats can also result in financial losses. For example, if a company is the victim of a phishing attack, the attacker may be able to steal credit card numbers or other financial information. This information can then be used to make fraudulent charges on the company's accounts.
- Operational disruptions: Web security threats can also disrupt the operations of a company. For example, if a company is the victim of a DDoS attack, its website or web application may be unavailable to customers or employees. This can lead to lost revenue and productivity.
- Damage to reputation: Web security threats can also damage the reputation of a company. If a company is the victim of a data breach, customers may lose confidence in the company and take their business elsewhere.
- Using outdated software: Outdated software often contains vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. It is important to keep all software up to date with the latest security patches.
- Using weak passwords: Weak passwords are easily guessed by attackers. It is important to use strong passwords that are at least 12 characters long and contain a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Not using multi-factor authentication: Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to enter a code from their phone in addition to their password. This makes it much more difficult for attackers to gain access to accounts.
- Not having a security awareness training program: Security awareness training teaches employees about the latest web security threats and how to protect themselves from them. It is important to have a regular security awareness training program for all employees.