Computer Science - 9210 OxfordAQA

Methods To Detect And Prevent Cyber Security

Overview

Every security measure you meet is an answer to a specific question, and the measures are only sensible once you know which question each one answers. A fingerprint reader answers is this the right person? A distorted puzzle before a form answers is this a person at all? A message sent to an address answers does this person really control that address? Pick the wrong measure for the question and you have added inconvenience without adding safety.

This lesson covers the five methods the specification names: biometric measures, password systems, CAPTCHA or similar tests, email confirmations of identity, and automatic software updates. For each one you will learn what it does, what it defends against, where it fails, and which of the threats from the previous topic it actually closes. That last connection is where the marks are in an applied question, and it is the part candidates most often leave out.

Objectives

  1. Understand and be able to explain the following security measures:
  2. biometric measures (particularly for mobile devices)
  3. password systems
  4. CAPTCHA (or similar)
  5. using email confirmations to confirm a user’s identity
  6. automatic software updates.

Mind map

This topic is mapped out so you can see how the ideas connect.

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Lesson Note

The specification names five security measures and asks you to understand and be able to explain each. Before taking them one at a time, it is worth seeing what each is actually for, because three of them look superficially similar and are not.

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Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Methods To Detect And Prevent Cyber Security. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

  1. What is a CAPTCHA used for? A. To encrypt data before it is sent B. To establish that a request comes from a person rather than an automated program C. To check that a password is long enough D. To install software updates automatically Answer: B
  2. Which is a disadvantage of using a fingerprint instead of a password? A. It can be forgotten B. It can easily be shared with a colleague C. It cannot be changed if it is compromised D. It requires the user to type accurately Answer: C
  3. What does an email confirmation prove? A. That the user controls the email address given B. That the user is who they say they are C. That the user's device is free of malware D. That the user's password is strong Answer: A
  4. Which threat do automatic software updates most directly address? A. Shouldering B. Unpatched and outdated software C. Misconfigured access rights D. Removable media Answer: B
  5. Which measure would best stop a program from trying thousands of passwords against an account? A. Encrypting the stored data B. Sending an email confirmation C. A CAPTCHA together with a limit on failed attempts D. Automatic software updates Answer: C

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