Cyber Ethics And Cyber Security

An unauthorized person who secretly gains access to computer files is commonly referred to as a hacker. Hackers use their technical skills and knowledge to exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, or software to gain unauthorized access or control over sensitive information. They may engage in activities such as stealing personal data, spreading malware, or disrupting computer systems. Hackers can pose a significant threat to individuals, organizations, and even governments, as they can cause financial loss, privacy breaches, and damage to reputation and infrastructure.

A password is a security code that is used to gain access to a computer or a specific program. It acts as a form of authentication, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access the system or the program. By requiring a password, the user's identity and authorization are verified, preventing unauthorized access and protecting sensitive information.

Adware refers to advertising supported software that automatically plays or displays ads. This type of software is designed to generate revenue for its developers by displaying advertisements to users. Adware can be installed on a computer without the user's knowledge or consent, often bundled with other software. It can be annoying and intrusive, as it constantly interrupts the user's browsing experience with unwanted ads. Adware is different from malware, as it does not typically cause harm to the computer system itself, but rather focuses on delivering targeted advertisements.

A computer program designed to damage computer files and replicate itself is commonly known as a virus. Viruses are malicious software that can cause harm to a computer system by corrupting or deleting files, stealing personal information, or disrupting the normal functioning of the system. They spread by attaching themselves to other files or programs and can be transmitted through various means such as email attachments, infected websites, or removable storage devices. Once a computer is infected, the virus can replicate and spread to other computers, causing further damage.

Phishing refers to the act of tricking users into revealing personal information, such as passwords and bank account numbers, through fraudulent emails that pretend to be from legitimate companies. These emails often contain convincing logos, designs, and language to deceive recipients into thinking they are genuine. The goal of phishing is to obtain sensitive information that can be used for identity theft or financial fraud.

Copyright refers to the legal rights granted to the creator of an original work, such as a book, song, or artwork. These laws give the creator exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and display their work, as well as the authority to grant permission to others who wish to use or reproduce the work. In other words, copyright laws require individuals to obtain permission from the creator before using their work in any way.

The term "cyberbully" refers to a person who engages in harassing, taunting, or teasing behavior online. This can include sending threatening messages, spreading rumors, or posting harmful content about someone with the intention of causing emotional distress. The variations "cyber bully" and "cyber-bully" are simply alternate spellings of the same term, all of which describe the same behavior.

Intellectual property refers to the ownership of intangible creations of the mind, such as ideas, inventions, and artistic works like art and music. These creations are protected by laws and regulations to ensure that the original creators have exclusive rights to use and profit from their work. Intellectual property rights can be granted through patents, copyrights, and trademarks, allowing individuals and businesses to control and monetize their innovative and creative endeavors.

Spyware is a type of malicious software that infiltrates a computer system and secretly tracks and collects personal information without the user's consent. It is designed to monitor a user's online activities, capture sensitive data like passwords and credit card information, and send it back to the attacker. Spyware can be installed through deceptive downloads, malicious email attachments, or by exploiting vulnerabilities in the operating system or software. It poses a significant threat to privacy and can lead to identity theft or financial loss.

A firewall is a technology that prevents users from visiting inappropriate websites. It acts as a barrier between a private internal network and the public internet, monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic. By setting up rules and filters, a firewall can block access to websites that are deemed inappropriate or potentially harmful. It helps to protect against unauthorized access, malware, and other online threats, ensuring a safer browsing experience for users.

A Trojan horse is a type of malicious software that appears harmless or useful, but actually contains harmful code. When the software is activated or executed, it can cause damage to the computer system. This term is derived from the Greek myth of the Trojan War, where the Greeks used a giant wooden horse to sneak into the city of Troy. Similarly, a Trojan horse program disguises itself to deceive users into installing or executing it, allowing the harmful code to be unleashed and cause harm to the computer.

An Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) is a set of rules that governs the use of the internet and aims to protect others. By signing the AUP, you agree to abide by these rules and regulations when using the internet at Decatur. The AUP ensures that internet usage remains within acceptable boundaries and prevents misuse or abuse of the internet, promoting a safe and respectful online environment for all users.

The term "virtual footprint" refers to the information that individuals leave about themselves online through various means such as postings, photographs, and videos. This information creates a digital trail or footprint that can be traced back to the person. It includes their online activities, interactions, and personal details that can be accessed and analyzed by others. The virtual footprint is a reflection of an individual's online presence and can have implications for their privacy, reputation, and security.

Plagiarize refers to the act of using someone else's work, ideas, or words without giving them proper credit and claiming it as one's own. This includes copying and pasting text from a source without citation, presenting someone else's ideas as original, or paraphrasing without acknowledging the original author. Plagiarism is considered unethical and is a serious offense in academic and professional settings.