BTEC 2012

Unit 1 The Online World

Name: .

Lesson 12 Possible Threats to Data

(Student Book C Pg 1 - 4)

Starter What is malware?

Software that used to disrupt and create problems on a computer or computer program

Malicious Threats

Opportunist

Virus

Threats to data

Trojan

Phishing

1. Explain what each of the following threats are:

a. Opportunist- people who find an unattended computer which has been left logged into the system can
view, steal or damage information in programs
b. Viruses- small programs that can replicate and spread from computer to computer
c. Phishing- attempts to gain access to passwords, financial documents and other information
2. What is considered accidental damage?
When something is caused by a natural disaster (e.g. flooding)

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BTEC 2012
Unit 1 The Online World

Name: .

Computer security is an important aspect of online communication however all computer systems are
under continuous threat of attack and the threats are ever changing. It is impossible to provide 100%
protection to a computer system.
3. What are the possible consequences of an attack?
a.
b.
c.
d.

data could be given to people who shouldnt have it

files being deleted or edited
computer or device being damaged
loss of data or financially

4. It is important to protect computer systems and their data. Match the following preventative actions to
the correct description.
Physical Barrier

Passwords

Access Levels

Anti-virus Software

Firewall

Encryption

This is set up to intercept computer viruses before they can

become resident on the computer. The software can isolate
the virus, remove it and sometimes repair any damage.
These can be set up to allow individuals to have access to
only specific levels of an application and to prevent
unauthorized users from accessing particular data.
This is used to codify data so that it cannot be read by
anyone who does not have the key to the code. An
algorithm, sometimes known as a cipher, is applied to the
data at the transmission end and the reverse is applied at
the reception end.
This is a piece of software that monitors all data arriving at
your computer from the internet and all data leaving your
computer. It stops anything that it thinks is harmful or
unwanted (such as viruses, spam, Trojan horses and
hackers).
These include turning off computers and locking offices
when the systems are unattended to prevent damage by
people, the environment (e.g. fire, flooding, electrical
interference) or theft.
Sequences of characters, known only to the computer user, which
allow access to a computer, network or application

Backup and recovery. Making a backup of data is the only way of recovering from a total data
disaster. Many individuals and organizations back up data to Flash solid state storage devices
or magnetic tape at night. The tapes are stored safely in a separate place, so that they are not
destroyed by any disaster, which could destroy the master system (fire, earthquake, etc.).
5. What are the different types of backups available?
The dangers of identity theft and of revealing too much personal information on
social networks and via instant messaging are often reported in the news.
These threats can affect both your security and your reputation. Think about who has access
to the information you put online. Before you put photos on your social networking profile,
think about who might see them and whether you would mind. You might not want your

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BTEC 2012
Unit 1 The Online World

Name: .

employer or teacher to see something that might be embarrassing or harmful to your

reputation.
Use security settings to protect your privacy and identity. Remember that not everyone is who
they claim to be. Criminals access social networking sites trying to find out information about
people. This may put you at risk of identity theft and password theft if you have revealed too
much information about yourself. Be careful not to reveal information that you might use in a
password, such as your pets name.
6. What is identity theft?
Fraudulent practice of using another person's name and personal information in order to
obtain credit, loans, etc
7. How can you help prevent identify theft?
Use strong passwords, dont tell anyone private and personal information or data and stay secure
by checking if link is secure and checking if there is a padlock on website.

Plenary What is the Data Protection Act?

controls how your personal information is used by organisations, businesses
or the government.

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