Category: Internet of Things Page 3 of 5

Cybersecurity Terms to Understand

On August 10, 2021

In Blockchain, Chika Wonah, Internet of Things, Technology

If you use the internet, then you need to know about cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is how we keep our information safe and secure online. From your personal email address to your bank account, from your credit card number to your social media passwords – it all needs a layer of protection against hackers and malicious software. Security is an ongoing process; one can never be too careful when it comes to privacy or the security of others. Here are some basic terms related to cybersecurity that you may find helpful in understanding this topic:

A firewall

A firewall is software that protects the security of your computer or network. Firewalls prevent outsiders from accessing private data and networks and keep internal users from accessing unauthorized sites. A firewall can be programmed with different levels of permissions depending on who needs access. It is usually possible to temporarily override a firewall’s restrictions for a limited amount of time.

Password

A password is a word or phrase used to authenticate access to data, devices, and buildings. Passwords are widely used in computer networks because they are relatively easy to implement and can be revoked. They are also harder for someone else to find out than other types of credentials like biometrics. However, passwords are vulnerable to hacking if they are not sufficiently complex.

Authentication

Authentication is validation that an individual can be trusted or that a computer system or network is secure and functioning properly. The authentication process involves the validating party evaluating something the subject brings with them to verify their identity. In computer systems, rather than something physical, a subject is authenticated through passwords or keys.

Data encryption

Data encryption is a process that drives home security by making data unreadable to anyone without authorized access. Encrypting data renders it meaningless to unauthorized users who might intercept it and try to read the contents. Encryption involves using algorithms and cryptographic keys to make data files unreadable.

Debugging

Debugging is checking and fixing errors in computer software or hardware. It can be performed on a live system, usually for testing purposes, but sometimes also when the program is in the maintenance phase or done on a copy of the program (“dummy”) to save time and effort. Debugging is often performed by programmers during the development process.

Malware

Malware refers to any kind of software designed to disrupt computer operation, gather sensitive information from your system, or gain access to private data such as passwords or banking details. Malware is often spread through phishing emails that contain infected attachments or links to compromised websites (also referred to as a watering hole attack).

If we implement preventive measures, such as those I have listed above, we can probably avoid cyber attacks. It will be pretty difficult for hackers to access any of your personal information if you avoid risky behaviors on the internet.

How to Train Your Employees on Cyber Security

By Chika Wonah

On July 13, 2021

In Chika Wonah, Internet of Things, Technology

These days, data breaches and security issues that affect companies negatively are very common. Often, these issues could have been prevented if the employees had been properly trained on cybersecurity. Cybersecurity can best be defined as practices and protocols designed to protect against hacking and other online attacks. This protection should start with employees. They are frequently the biggest risk in the fight against hacking and cybercrime, but with proper training, they can become a great asset.

Enforce Regular Training

First of all, all businesses should require all employees to regularly undergo cybersecurity training. “Regular” is really the key term. As employees get smarter and better armed against cyber-attacks, hackers do too. This is why frequent, up-to-date training is absolutely necessary. The more regularly employees are trained, the better able they are to protect an organization against increasing and increasingly smart cyber attacks

Discourage Photos

It may sound crazy, but discouraging the taking of photos in the workplace can be an effective way to improve cybersecurity.

The thing about photos is that they often get shared online. And, unintentionally, private information could be shared as well. A perfectly innocent photo could accidentally feature a piece of paperwork with should-be-secure information, or it could reveal a computer screen packed with sensitive data.

Smart hackers often look carefully into the background of these types of photos and gain the information they need to attack. By discouraging photo-taking and teaching safe photo-taking protocols, workplaces can reduce the risk of these types of accidental leaks.

Require Strong Passwords

Almost everyone has found themselves frustrated when using sites that require complex passwords. However, these types of passwords are extremely helpful in preventing security issues. Thus, all organizations should require employees to use complex, regularly changed passwords.

Ideally, these passwords should be sufficiently long, should not contain words commonly found in the dictionary, should contain multiple types of characters, and should not be shared or reused anywhere.

Since employees may be tempted to reuse their passwords on non-work-related sites, be sure to educate them on the dangers of doing so and to enforce consequences for those who have been discovered breaking the rules.

Enforcing cybersecurity among employees may not be easy. It may not always be met with positivity either. But, following these and other smart protocols could take an organization from vulnerable to secure.

Cybersecurity and Crypto: How They Work Together

By Chika Wonah

On July 12, 2021

In Blockchain, Chika Wonah, Digital, Internet of Things, Technology

The relationship between cybersecurity and crypto is a complicated one. Cybersecurity protects the information that companies collect from hackers, while cryptography ensures that data remains confidential once it has been collected.

Cryptocurrency – What Is It?

Cryptocurrency, or digital currency, is the future of money. It’s an encrypted form of cash that does not rely on a centralized bank to regulate its value. Instead, it relies on encryption and mathematics for security – which are two things cybersecurity excels at!

Cryptography ensures that cryptocurrency transactions remain confidential, while cryptography also helps protect data from hackers by encrypting it with strong algorithms so only you can access your files.

They offer a decentralized global payment system without borders (no national banks needed!) that lets us send money without dealing with all those annoying fees charged by traditional financial institutions.

Cybersecurity and Cybercrime

Cybercriminals have better access to cryptocurrency because of decentralization, which makes it vulnerable to hacking. As a result, billions of dollars in cryptocurrency have been stolen or lost to hackers.

However, with the help of blockchain technology and security protocols such as two-factor authentication (also known as “multi-factor authentication”), cryptocurrency can be more secure. Blockchains are digital ledgers that record transactions in chronological order so that they cannot be modified or hacked without leaving an indelible mark on time itself! The best part about this form of cybersecurity? It’s FREE!

Cryptocurrency Exchanges

Cybercriminals have used them for money laundering, drug trafficking, and, more recently, ransomware attacks. For example, the WannaCry attack relied on a vulnerability within systems at two Russian companies which were hacked last year – they took advantage of this weakness when attackers demanded ransom payments be made in Bitcoin or Ethereum.

Cryptography – The Science of Cryptocurrency Security

When cryptography and cybersecurity work together, we can enjoy the benefits of cryptocurrency without getting hacked!

When these two fields work together, they make some really interesting things happen: in this case, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin offer people something new. They offer a decentralized global payment system without borders (no national banks needed!) that lets us send money without dealing with all those annoying fees charged by traditional financial institutions.

Cybersecurity excels at protecting data from cybercriminals, while cryptography also helps protect our data from hackers by encrypting it with strong algorithms so only you can access your files.

Protecting Your Personal Information on Social Media

By Chika Wonah

On June 18, 2021

In Blockchain, Chika Wonah, Digital, Internet of Things, Technology

People can use these four tips to protect their personal information on social media.

Avoid posting sensitive information

Some people use social media for everything. They send Wi-Fi passwords to their friends. They upload work-related documents to colleagues. Some people even use Facebook to communicate with their accountants during tax season. Using social media to message people is okay. However, do not use the platform as a storage space for confidential documents. Instead, use flash drives. Important issues should be resolved offline.

Use anonymized platforms

People need to question whether it is necessary to use their real name and picture online. Do the pros outweigh the cons? Things can go wrong in a security breach. Identities get stolen. People’s lives get turned upside down. Internet users should consider using Reddit and other anonymized chatrooms. People can still find out about current events on Reddit. There are insightful discussions about various topics. For example, people talk about the latest technological advancements. They also share funny cat videos. People can stay safe on the internet by using fake credentials when signing up for an account. Become anonymous in case anything happens.

Make sure to log out

People stay logged in when they are at home. It is convenient. No one likes to waste time signing in. However, staying logged in is a cybersecurity issue. What happens when someone comes over? That person can easily access the computer when the homeowner is not looking. He or she can impersonate the homeowner on social media and ask friends for strange favors. This is a disaster waiting to happen. Therefore, users should remember to log out when they are finished with their browsing session.

Adjust privacy settings

Social media users have control over the types of people that can see their content. They can let the public see everything. They can also limit viewership to friends or friends of friends. People should become familiar with privacy settings because they can affect all aspects of life. Employers check social media when they screen applicants. Universities also research social media profiles before sending out acceptance letters. People should be mindful of these things when they log in.

By taking these actions, people can navigate social media without compromising their safety.

2021 Cybersecurity Career Trends

By Chika Wonah

On June 16, 2021

In Blockchain, Chika Wonah, Digital, Internet of Things, Technology

Technology is evolving rapidly, and businesses are changing how they operate with the emergence of new technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and automation. It is creating opportunities for companies to think beyond the everyday operations and development of recent career trends. The world is relying on technology, and with this, there is a need to enhance cybersecurity. Taking up a career in cybersecurity is lucrative because it guarantees full-time employment. Let us brush over some of the emerging cybersecurity career trends this year.

Blockchain developer

Developers create innovative systems to conquer hacking, which is a common cybersecurity threat. They often operate on multiple systems and are familiar with several programming languages. It is the job of blockchain developers to ensure the security of transactions by using secure methods such as cryptography.

Network engineer

The network engineers are responsible for dealing with computer networks. Network engineers perform installations and maintenance of components such as routers and cables. In addition, these professionals monitor network configuration and installation of firewalls to prevent cybersecurity threats. The salary average is about $158,213 for this profession.

Cybersecurity project manager

It is an excellent opportunity for any cybersecurity professional seeking a leadership role. The position gives you an upper hand to manage teams. It is the job of project managers to ensure that the different targets of the project are met within the specified time. In addition, they are charged with providing cybersecurity measures after the analysts have determined the various security measures. Most cyber project managers work with large teams and a budget, so the job demands are at a higher stake.

Information security analyst

The analysts are charged with the responsibility of creating plans and strategies to prevent cyber-attacks. They protect the entire infrastructure by monitoring networks, assessing threats, and protecting them from all types of cybersecurity threats. Once they have identified a treat, they can opt to work on it or escalate the issue depending on the complexity.

Ethical hackers

It is an excellent way of learning how cybercriminals operate. They are responsible for testing out a weakness or any breach in the security system. They create preventive measures even before hacking happens. One way of getting certification is through online learning, which makes you be certified.

Final thoughts

The careers mentioned above are trends that are emerging and evolving. Some of the professions may require you to go through the education system and get the certification. More cybersecurity careers will be on the rise this year and beyond as there is an increasing demand to maintain proper data security measures.

The Importance of Having a VPN at Home

By Chika Wonah

On April 19, 2021

In Blockchain, Chika Wonah, Digital, Internet of Things, Technology, Uncategorized

Anyone who’s been on the internet has heard of VPN services in the past couple of years. However, the average internet user might not truly understand the need to have a VPN. You should consider these reasons why you should start using a VPN service on your internet-connected devices.

Restricted Content

Whether you’re using Netflix or Hulu, you can access a catalog of content that can specific to your country. This means that you could be blocked access from the movie or TV show that you want to watch while another user in a different country gets access to that content. Fortunately, a VPN service can help out with this issue.

To solve this, a user needs to subscribe to a VPN service that offers a server in the country that their streaming content is available. From there, users can watch any restricted content as long as they are using it through their VPN service.

Public Networks

If you need to use the internet while traveling, you might be thinking of using a public network somewhere like an airport or a coffee shop. This might seem simple enough, but you can run into intruders that are on the same network. Having intruders on the same public network as you means that you could have your details and files leaked to them as you browse the internet. Fortunately, a VPN can prevent you from these attacks.

To protect yourself, make sure that you’ve subscribed to a VPN service before accessing your public network. You should then be able to connect to your VPN at any time to create a secured connection on both ends. With a secure connection, intruders won’t get any private details from you since packets coming from your computer and VPN network are encrypted.

Blocked Websites

Getting past restricted streaming content can be great, but you might be wondering more about websites that are blocked in your country. In countries like China, users can go through social media websites like Twitter and YouTube without getting a blocked message. Fortunately, having a VPN lets you bypass this.

You can bypass website restrictions on a VPN because the packets are encrypted in a way that isn’t if you are using a typical network. However, users should find out if any laws make this a criminal offense anywhere they may be living or traveling.

The Risks of Login Codes Sent via Text Message

By Chika Wonah

On April 19, 2021

In Blockchain, Chika Wonah, Digital, Internet of Things, Technology, Uncategorized

Two-factor authentication can seem very useful for securing your essential accounts from intruders. However, more and more hackers have been getting into accounts that use text messages for two-factor authentication. Look into these reasons why you should switch over the type of two-factor authentication you operate away from text messaging.

Routing Messages

When you’re holding your phone close to you, you might be thinking that an intruder will have to get into your phone by getting you to install malware. For the past couple of years, though, intruders have been more clever into how they get into mobile phones. They can do this by going directly to your mobile phone carrier.

The way they do this is by first finding some personal details about you. These can be as complicated as your social security number or as simple as the address you live on. From there, they call up your phone carrier.

Depending on the phone carrier, they can be easily convinced that you’re locked out of your mobile device, and you need your number transferred to a separate phone. Intruders can accomplish this by giving up their details and paying a small fee. If it goes successfully, an intruder will have full access to any phone calls or text messages coming your way, with no way to stop them until you’re able to call your phone carrier again. This all is why you shouldn’t ever use text messaging for your two-factor authentication.

Notifications

Sometimes, an intruder might not even be far away to the point where they can be looking at your phone screen in public. Depending on your mobile device settings, you might have notifications popping up with security codes on any screen of your device. Intruders can come up with a plan to get a security code this way.

For example, you might be live-streaming a game on your phone to the internet. Intruders will use this to their advantage by logging into your account online and checking your stream for when the phone notification appears. After that, they can log in to your account and do enough damage before you even have the chance to change the passwords on your accounts. Notifications are just another reason why you shouldn’t be using text messaging linked to your two-factor authentication.

2021 Cyber Security Predictions

By Chika Wonah

On February 15, 2021

In Blockchain, Chika Wonah, Digital, Internet of Things, Technology, Uncategorized

Many corporations have prioritized cyber-security amid the COVID-19 pandemic. PwC’s recent report shows that 96% of managers have changed their cyber-security techniques, and 40% of them claim that their digitization efforts have increased. Correspondingly, IDC anticipates that global security expenditure will increase by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% during the 2020-2024 prediction period, reaching $174.7 billion in 2024. Similarly, Forrester’s 2021 cyber-security forecasts indicate that funding for cyber-security companies whose headquarters are outside the United States will rise by 20% in 2021. Analysis Mason also predicts that between 2019 and 2025, mobile device security will be the fastest-growing cyber-security category and will reach $13 billion with a CAGR of 17%.

In 2020, breaches became a challenging problem that was difficult to stop. For example, the U.S Depart of Health and Human Services (HHS) Breach Portal shows that in 2020, 436 breaches attacked healthcare organizations, affecting 17.3 million.

Here is a list of predictions that apprehend how cyber-security will advance in 2021:

1. In 2021, 55% of businesses will increase their cyber-security budget allocations, and 51% will hire more full-time cyber staff.

2. In The Next Three Years, the most dominant cyber-security technologies will be the Cloud Workload Protection Platform, Passwordless Authentication, and Posture Management. As Gartner’s Impact Radar for Security framework indicates, the Zero Trust Networking will have a significant impact within a period of one to three years.

3. Security services will be the fastest and largest growing security market sector, occupying half of the security budget meant for the 2020-2024 prediction period. The segment will also attain a CAGR of 10.5% in five years.

By 2021, cyber-security IT spending will reach a CAGR of 12% due to the drastic increase in cybercrimes, such as breaches, endpoint security attacks, phishing, and privilege access credential abuse.

Intellectual Property will be cyber criminals’ target in 2021.
The global cyber-security expenditure for small and medium-sized businesses will increase by 10% CAGR between 2019 and 2024, making this segment an $80 billion industry in four years.

4. Business cybersecurity spending will grow at a higher rate in four major industries- healthcare services and systems, financial and banking, technology and media, and social and public segments.

5. Improvements in AI and machine learning will contribute to 80% of devices’ capability to self-secure-and-heal, enabling IT to implement policies and remain confident that their data and devices are safe.

Many companies will struggle to reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks in 2021 and beyond.
Over the next five years, cyber-crime costs will increase at an annual rate of 15%, reaching $10.5 trillion per year by 2025.
Security vendors will continue to consolidate endpoint security in 2021.

In 2021, cybercriminals will devise new and innovative ways to attack personal devices to access corporate networks. While the COVID-19 pandemic has forced workers to work remotely, many organizations have not fully protected their employees. As a result, cyber attackers will exploit these gaps, leading to increased cybercrimes.

Understanding if Your Device Has Been Hacked

By Chika Wonah

On February 15, 2021

In Blockchain, Chika Wonah, Digital, Internet of Things, Technology, Uncategorized

From social sites to banking, smart devices are increasingly becoming part of most people’s daily lives. Unfortunately, they are also exposing them to data snatchers, popularly known as hackers. The hackers may gain access to a device in many ways, but we will discuss how to know when that happens.

Receiving Random Pop-ups

Random pop-ups are not annoying, but they are among the most popular signs that a device got hacked. If one is getting random pop-ups from their browser, something has compromised their device with adware. Adware is popular with hackers when trying to force someone to view certain websites to drive revenues through viewership.

Draining Battery without Any Reason

If one notices that a device battery is quickly losing power for no reason, that is a sign that it has malware. This sudden loss of battery power is due to malware or spy-app that is operating from the background. The spy-app uses a lot of battery power to scan the device and transmit it to the hacker.

Poor Performance

One may notice that their device is suddenly crashing all the time or loading web pages much slower. When such happens, first try shutting down the machine, and take notice of what happens. If the device has gotten hacked, it may fail to shut down correctly or not shut down at all.

One can also notice slowed functionality of some operations, such as making calls or receiving text messages. Such things shouldn’t take long unless the device has a spy-app.

Increased Data Usage

Another indication of a compromised device is the exceptionally high data usage. The usage may be a result of a background running app communicating to a third-party.

Contact List Gets Call and Tests That the Owner Didn’t Make

When a device gets hacked, the hacker leaves the malware in the gadget and may use the contact list to spread it. One’s email list, text messages, or instant messages may transmit the malware to his contact through messages with links or attached files. Check out for complaints from the contact list about notifications that they supposedly received.

The Device’s Settings Change

If the hacker physically accesses a device, they may manually change its settings. For instance, one may notice that their device Bluetooth is on, despite them not switching it on. Such settings change maybe a sign of malware interfering with the device settings to spread it to other devices.

There are many ways to know when a device has gotten hacked. To prevent losing data or money, always take preventive measures. For example, one can run a malware scanner on their device.

Cybersecurity and Space Are Becoming a Key Battleground in 2021

By Chika Wonah

On January 14, 2021

In Blockchain, Chika Wonah, Digital, Internet of Things, Technology

Outer space is more critical to the global communication system than one would think. Communications, defense, transport, and more rely on it to send their signals. The world doesn’t realize how critical space cybersecurity is to modern life.

The following industries are vulnerable:

air travel
communications
defense
finance
trade

Satellites are very vulnerable to attack by bad actors. Cyberwarfare is becoming a bigger threat. Many countries are expanding their military to compete in this space.

What are the Vulnerabilities in Space Cybersecurity?

DDOS – Distributed Denial of Service

Sending massive amounts of data can overwhelm the receiving device. Many times the device will shut down or stop receiving communications. Other times it can overheat.

Losing a connection during a disaster or conflict would be extremely dangerous. It would disrupt first-responders or ground force’s communications.

Malware

Malicious code can exploit weak points in outdated software. Sometimes malware quietly eavesdrops on private communications. Other times malware causes deliberate damage.

Signal Spoofing

Signals are susceptible to interception and distortion. False communications can pose as a legitimate order.

Spoofing can hide locations of key assets too. One side would have accurate coordinates, while the other would not. Massive amounts of defense systems rely on accurate location coordinates.

Why Do Vulnerabilities Exist in Space?

Many of these satellites have been around for decades. They were not designed with modern cybersecurity in mind. Security was simply not considered.

Many of the solutions have been band-aid solutions. The design of older software and hardware focuses on ease of use. Every device and software will have vulnerabilities. This is more true the older and more out of date something is.

What Policies Can Solve These Issues?

Officials need to create a comprehensive plan to protect critical infrastructure. More nations and organizations are developing capabilities to cause damage.

Routine threat assessments will allow decision-makers to manage risk wisely. This will streamline establishing industry guidelines.

Allied-nations will have to work together to apply these standards. Data flows between many countries at any time. If one nation is lax in its protocols, it can compromise many other nations.

It is critical to pay attention to cybersecurity in space. More of the world’s economy and defense systems will rely on secure communications. The world must work together to mitigate its risk. Otherwise, it will be at the mercy of hostile nation-states and well-organized groups.