Why Do We Need Network Security?

What Causes Vulnerability within Computers?

Network Security is necessary to protect data, ensure client confidentiality, enforce business reliability, and so on. Therefore, preventing network breaches requires a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. That is, there are people in this world who will do their absolute best to obtain sensitive data for financial gain. 

Below are a few ways hackers/attackers can obtain sensitive information:

Phishing attacks: Social engineering techniques such as phishing emails trick users into revealing sensitive information like login credentials thus allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access. 

• Some people often fall for attackers posing as celebrities or companies promising certain assets (often money, products, merchandise), in return they will send a link for "confirmation."

Denial of Service (DoS)/Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks: DDoS/DoS attacks allow users to overwhelm networks with excessive traffic. This traffic then disrupts services which can cause opportunities for attackers to exploit weaknesses within the network. 

• Plenty of corporations suffer from these attacks during big release dates. For instance, companies such as Microsoft will release new products (often in the form of video games) and attackers will schedule an attack to disrupt profit. 

Remote Access Vulnerability: Secured remote access points can be easily exploited by attackers to gain entry into networks. 

• Plenty of corporate employees rely on remote access support for IT issues. For the inexperienced user, there are some applications online that pose as "similar" remote access software used by corporations. Once downloaded, an attacker can easily obtain data. 

Outdated Software: In the field of consumer tech, there are plenty of computers that run on different software such as MacOS, Linux, or Windows. These big three software have regular updates, and if neglected, can pose a threat to users. 

• Older users often neglect updating software on their devices resulting in outdated software. In my tenure within GeekSquad, plenty of clients came in with computers still operating in Windows 7 or Windows 8.1. 
• That said, they had no idea why browsers kept popping up asking for personal information. Additionally, they had no clue how to update their devices, thus resulting in getting their information stolen. 

It is essential for organizations and individuals to stay vigilant and continually improve their knowledge of computer systems. Improving network security also ensures minimizing cyber threats.