What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is the act of protecting computers, networks, and information from unauthorized access, use, or damage. Cybersecurity can be broken down into two categories: defensive and offensive.
Defensive cybersecurity includes things like firewalls and antivirus software, which keep hackers out of your system by preventing unauthorized access or damage.
Offensive cybersecurity involves things like phishing emails and malware that are designed to trick users into giving up sensitive information or installing malicious software on their systems.
Cybersecurity has been a concept since the development of the first computer, but truly emerged in the 1970s when Bob Thomas invented a program called Creeper to see if something could move over a network. In response, Ray Tomlinson created Reaper, the first ever antivirus software.
Why Does it Matter?
Stephane Nappo, the Global Head Information Security for Société Générale International Banking, puts it well when he said that “Cyber-Security is much more than a matter of IT.” It impacts every corner of a business.
Cybersecurity has become increasingly important as technology has evolved and become more sophisticated. In the past decade, we have seen the emergence of cloud computing, big data analytics, mobility and other technologies that can create vulnerabilities if not properly protected. A huge part of risk management and incident response involves finding ways to protect cybersecurity.
