What is Cybersecurity and Why Does it Matter?
By Michael Wilson.
From a firewall to literal hacking, cybersecurity is hot stuff! But what is cybersecurity and why does it matter?
What is Cybersecurity
In dictionary terms, cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. In fun terms, cybersecurity is a virtual defense system for your tech that shoots down and burns any attack and/or virus that tries to infect it.
Cybersecurity can be more than a firewall too (a virtual “wall” that blocks suspicious files from being downloaded and doesn’t let you access potentially harmful websites). Think of it like your computer’s immune system!
Much like how our bodies fight off colds, cybersecurity is fighting off viruses, hackers, and cyberattacks. A computer virus is something that can seriously mess up your tech. It can damage or destroy documents like photos, and even share personal passwords! When that happens, it turns into a cyberattack. It’s the job of a cybersecurity expert to put an end to these attacks!
Why Does Cybersecurity Matter?
It matters because the internet is everywhere. It protects you and your tech so what you put online stays safe! That means your passwords are protected and your personally identifiable information (PII) is kept personal.
We hear you asking, “But why would I keep that online?” You may not and that’s the smart way to do it. But if you’ve ever sent your phone number in an email, or input your credit card information online to buy something, then that information is out there. Cybersecurity makes sure that no one other than you and the intended person/business sees it.
What’s At Risk?
We live in the digital age, meaning everything is online. That’s not a bad thing! It’s super convenient and makes our day-to-day lives so much easier. But, it does mean you’re more at risk for a virus or cyber-attack if you’re not careful. So, what’s at risk?
Your Privacy
Anything you put online can be at risk. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t trust websites — it just means you should be careful about where you send your information. Use reliable and trusted websites that have safeguards in place and you should be fine.
Just so you know the risks, trusting the wrong website can lead to identity theft, extortion, data loss. Trusting the wrong website can also lead to a shutdown of critical operational systems.
Critical Systems
Cybersecurity threats affect critical systems. Breaches can harm infrastructure assets that allow societies to function, including energy, communication, financial, and transportation systems. If you’re a business owner, then this type of attack can cripple your systems for days, if not weeks, until you block the source.
The Future of Cybersecurity
We realize this blog has a heavier tone than our past ones and that’s intentional. We don’t want to scare you, but it is important for you to recognize the very real threats that live online. There is a silver lining though — your children. They are the future of keeping everyone safe online and they will be the leaders to innovation and security.
Why? Because cybersecurity is increasingly important and will stay that way! Businesses are required to remain agile and diligent in today’s digital landscape, which is creating a high demand for cybersecurity professionals.
The best part is that kids can learn the basics in a fun and interactive program at KidsTech. Kids will be introduced to ethical hacking and find security flaws in online systems to make the internet a safer place. They’ll program robots to engage in cyberwarfare hacking challenges and covert team competitions too!
Prepare them for the future by enrolling them today. They’ll learn microbit electronics, circuitry, engineering, coding that is a staple for every programmer, IT professional, or a developer. It will give them a strong leg up for their future!
Careers in Cybersecurity
There’s a lot of different careers in it too. Take a peek:
Entry-level roles: systems engineer, systems administrator, web developer, IT technician, network engineer, security specialist
Mid-level roles: security technician, security analyst, incident responder, IT auditor, cybersecurity consultant, penetration tester
Advanced-level roles: cybersecurity manager, cybersecurity architect, cybersecurity engineer, chief information security officer
If you’re interested in learning more about how to protect your tech, give us a call or visit us in-store at GenTech. And if you want to learn more about KidsTech, you can visit us online!