Explain security measures to be taken to safe guard computers and information resources from risks?

Answer 1

There are various security measures that can be taken to safeguard computers and information resources from risks. Some of these measures include:

1. Installing and maintaining antivirus and antimalware software: Antivirus and antimalware software should be installed on all computers and regularly updated to protect against the latest threats. Regular scans should be performed to detect and remove any malicious software.

2. Using strong and unique passwords: Passwords should be complex, including a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. They should also be unique for each account or system. Passwords should be changed periodically, and password reuse should be avoided.

3. Implementing two-factor authentication (2FA): Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two forms of identification, such as a password and a unique code sent to their mobile device, before accessing a system or account.

4. Regularly updating software and operating systems: Software and operating systems should be kept up to date with the latest security patches and updates. This helps to protect against vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.

5. Implementing a firewall: A firewall acts as a barrier between internal and external networks, monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing traffic. It helps in blocking unauthorized access and reducing the risk of data breaches.

6. Encrypting sensitive data: Encryption converts data into a form that is unreadable without a decryption key. This helps protect data in case of unauthorized access or data theft.

7. Regular data backups: Regularly backing up important data ensures that it can be restored in case of accidental deletion, hardware failure, or a ransomware attack.

8. Restricting physical access: Physical access to computers and servers should be restricted to authorized personnel only. This can be achieved by implementing locked server rooms, access control systems, and surveillance cameras.

9. User training and awareness: Employees should be trained on best practices for safe computing, including recognizing phishing emails, avoiding suspicious websites, and not downloading or opening attachments from unknown sources.

10. Implementing access controls: Implementing user access controls ensures that only authorized individuals have access to specific systems or resources. This includes granting users the least privilege necessary to perform their job functions.

11. Conducting regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing: These tests identify weaknesses in the network or systems that can be exploited by attackers. By conducting regular assessments, vulnerabilities can be addressed before they are exploited.

12. Developing an incident response plan: Having a documented incident response plan helps in responding quickly and effectively to security incidents, minimizing their impact on computer systems and information resources.

Overall, implementing a comprehensive security strategy that combines these measures and continuously monitoring for new threats is crucial in safeguarding computers and information resources from risks.