INFORMATION SECURITY AND AUDIT
1. Overview of information security
2. Information and Network Security Policies
3. Cryptography and PKI
4. Network security applications
5. Design Principles
6. Compliance, Evaluation system and Law
7. Malicious logic and attacks
8. Vulnerability analysis and IT Audit
9. Intrusion detection and log analysis
LAB WORK -ISA
SOLVED PRACTICE QUESTIONS
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DEFENSES FOR VARIOUS ATTACKS

Defending against various types of cyber attacks requires a comprehensive approach that combines technical solutions, security best practices, and user education.

1. Network Security Defenses:

  • Firewalls: Use firewalls to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking unauthorized access and potential threats.
  • Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): Deploy IDS/IPS to detect and block suspicious activities and attacks on the network.
  • Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): Implement VPNs to encrypt network communications and secure data transmission over public networks.
  • Network Segmentation: Divide networks into smaller segments to limit the impact of potential breaches and prevent lateral movement by attackers.
  • Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Use strong encryption protocols (e.g., WPA3) and secure configurations to protect wireless networks from unauthorized access.

2. Endpoint Security Defenses:

  • Antivirus and Anti-malware Software: Install and regularly update antivirus and anti-malware software to detect and remove malicious software from endpoints.
  • Host-based Firewalls: Enable host-based firewalls on endpoints to monitor and control incoming and outgoing traffic, providing an additional layer of defense.
  • Patch Management: Keep operating systems, applications, and firmware up to date with the latest security patches to address known vulnerabilities.
  • Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Implement EDR solutions to continuously monitor and respond to suspicious activities and threats on endpoints.
  • Device Encryption: Encrypt data stored on endpoints to protect it from unauthorized access in case of theft or loss.

3. Application Security Defenses:

  • Secure Coding Practices: Train developers in secure coding practices to prevent common vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and insecure direct object references.
  • Web Application Firewalls (WAF): Deploy WAFs to monitor and filter HTTP traffic between web applications and external users, protecting against web-based attacks.
  • Code Reviews and Static Analysis: Conduct regular code reviews and use static analysis tools to identify and remediate security flaws in applications.
  • Secure Development Lifecycle (SDLC): Implement SDLC processes that integrate security considerations throughout the software development lifecycle, from design to deployment.
  • Penetration Testing: Conduct regular penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities in applications and infrastructure before attackers can exploit them.

4. Data Security Defenses:

  • Data Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data at rest and in transit using strong encryption algorithms and key management practices to protect it from unauthorized access.
  • Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Deploy DLP solutions to monitor and control the movement of sensitive data within and outside the organization, preventing unauthorized disclosure or exfiltration.
  • Access Controls: Implement least privilege access controls to restrict access to sensitive data to only authorized users and applications.
  • Data Backup and Recovery: Regularly back up critical data and test backup and recovery procedures to ensure data can be restored in case of data loss or ransomware attacks.
  • Data Classification: Classify data based on sensitivity and implement appropriate security controls and protections based on the classification level.

5. User Awareness and Training:

  • Security Awareness Training: Provide regular security awareness training to educate employees about common cyber threats, phishing scams, and best practices for protecting sensitive information.
  • Phishing Simulations: Conduct phishing simulation exercises to test employees' susceptibility to phishing attacks and provide targeted training based on the results.
  • Strong Authentication: Encourage the use of strong, unique passwords and implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to enhance account security.
  • Reporting Procedures: Establish clear procedures for reporting security incidents and suspicious activities to the IT security team for prompt investigation and response.

6. Incident Response and Management:

  • Incident Response Plan (IRP): Develop and maintain an IRP that outlines procedures for detecting, assessing, containing, and recovering from security incidents.
  • Incident Detection and Monitoring: Deploy security monitoring tools and establish processes for continuous monitoring of networks, endpoints, and applications for signs of security incidents.
  • Incident Response Team: Assemble an incident response team consisting of key stakeholders from IT, security, legal, and other relevant departments to coordinate response efforts effectively.
  • Post-Incident Analysis: Conduct thorough post-incident analysis and lessons learned sessions to identify weaknesses in security controls and processes and implement improvements to prevent future incidents.
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