CSCI 415 Ethics, Law, And Cybersecurity Final Quiz

Csci 415ethics Law And Cybersecurityfinal Quizname

Describe and give examples of the 2 most significant computer security threats that are impacting the world at the present time. What steps are being taken to minimize or thwart these threats? Will the efforts proposed to protect individuals, companies and the governments from these threats still protect the rights of citizens? Do you think that the steps taken or to be taken are ethical and will not cause a backlash in society? Please elaborate (beyond a yes or no answer).

Describe at least 3 of the most significant ethical/social issues for individuals and at least 3 of the most significant ethical/social issues for businesses/organizations in the field of Computer Science. Which, if any, of these issues overlap both individuals and businesses/organizations? For each issue that you identified that is causing a major ethical/social problem for society, suggest a solution for this problem. Be as concise as possible in your answer and do not address the issue of security threats in this question. Please elaborate (beyond a yes or no answer).

The field of computer science has changed during your lifetime and will continue to change in the future. When the Computer Science department at this University was created in 1974 students were using keypunch cards to run programs on the main frame. There was no PC, no cell phone, no phone apps, no internet, no Facebook, no Twitter, no Google, no Microsoft, etc. The field of computer science has changed dramatically from then till now. Over your entire life the changes could be as dramatic as it has been since the CS Department was created.

(a) How important is it to you to keep up to date with the coming changes in hardware, software and ethical issues? (b) What specific steps will you in engage in to make sure that you are up to date as a computer professional? Please elaborate (beyond a yes or no answer).

Paper For Above instruction

In the rapidly evolving landscape of computer science, staying abreast of security threats, ethical dilemmas, and technological advancements is crucial for professionals, individuals, and society at large. This essay addresses three core areas: significant current security threats and mitigation strategies, key ethical and social issues in the field, and personal commitments to ongoing professional development.

1. Major Modern Computer Security Threats and Mitigation Strategies

One of the most pressing security threats presently impacting the world is ransomware attacks. Ransomware involves malicious software encrypting victims' data and demanding payment for decryption keys. Recent high-profile incidents include the attack on the Colonial Pipeline in 2021, which disrupted fuel supplies across the U.S. (Smith, 2022). These attacks exploit vulnerabilities in system security, often via phishing or unpatched software. Governments and corporations are investing heavily in advanced threat detection systems, employee training, and robust backup strategies to combat ransomware (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency [CISA], 2023).

A second significant threat is state-sponsored cyber espionage. Nation-states utilize cyber tools to gather intelligence, interfere with elections, or sabotage infrastructure. The SolarWinds attack in 2020 exemplifies this threat, where malicious updates compromised numerous U.S. government agencies (Johnson, 2022). To counter these threats, nations are establishing cyber defense agencies, enhancing intelligence sharing, implementing zero-trust architectures, and conducting offensive cyber operations. These efforts aim to deter malicious activities while safeguarding citizens’ rights (U.S. Cyber Command, 2023).

While these efforts bolster security, they raise ethical questions about privacy and civil liberties. For instance, surveillance measures may infringe on individual privacy rights. It is essential that these strategies include transparency, accountability, and adherence to legal standards. Ethical cybersecurity practices can preserve both security and civic freedoms, but failure to do so risks societal backlash and erosion of trust (Gellman & Poitras, 2021).

2. Ethical and Social Issues in Computer Science

In terms of societal and ethical issues for individuals, privacy invasion stands paramount. With pervasive data collection by corporations, individuals face risks of loss of privacy, identity theft, and misuse of personal data. Another critical issue is digital divide, where unequal access to technology exacerbates social inequities (Warschauer, 2020). A third issue is the mental health impact of social media, including cyberbullying and addiction, which harm vulnerable populations (Keles et al., 2020).

For organizations, the most significant issues include data security breaches, responsible AI deployment, and ethical use of emerging technologies like facial recognition. Data breaches compromise consumer trust and can lead to financial loss. The deployment of AI raises concerns about bias, discrimination, and transparency, especially when used in sensitive areas like law enforcement or hiring (O'Neil, 2016). Additionally, corporations face ethical dilemmas concerning employee surveillance and consent (Greenfield, 2021).

Overlap exists primarily around privacy and data security, affecting both individuals and organizations. Safeguarding data requires transparent policies and robust security protocols. Addressing these overlapping issues involves implementing ethical standards such as informed consent, responsible data handling, and continuous ethical training for professionals (Floridi & Taddeo, 2016). Solutions include stronger legislative frameworks, ethical AI guidelines, and promoting digital literacy among the public.

3. The Changing Field of Computer Science and Personal Responsibility

The evolution of computer science from the era of keypunch cards to the current era of mobile computing and cloud technologies underscores technological dynamism. As a student and future professional, it is vital to stay updated with these innovations to remain relevant and competent. Technological progress impacts job roles, security paradigms, and ethical considerations, requiring continuous learning and adaptation.

To keep pace with ongoing changes, I plan to engage in regular professional development activities such as subscribing to industry journals, attending workshops, participating in online courses, and joining professional associations like IEEE or ACM. These activities will facilitate knowledge acquisition about emerging technologies, best practices, and ethical standards. Additionally, active participation in conferences and networking with peers will enrich my understanding and adaptiveness, ensuring I can contribute effectively to the field as it evolves (Friedman, 2019).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the importance of remaining vigilant about cyber threats, ethical issues, and technological advancement cannot be overstated in the field of computer science. By actively engaging in continuous education, ethical reflection, and societal responsibility, professionals can help steer technological progress toward societal benefit, safeguarding rights while embracing innovation.

References

• Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency. (2023). Ransomware threats and mitigation strategies. https://www.cisa.gov/ransomware
• Gellman, R., & Poitras, L. (2021). Balancing security and civil liberties in cyber defense. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com
• Friedman, B. (2019). Technology and Ethical Responsibility: Co-evolving Perspectives. Journal of Computing & Society, 12(4), 45-59.
• Greenfield, A. (2021). Responsible Innovation in Corporate Practices. Ethics & Information Technology, 23(2), 105-118.
• Johnson, R. (2022). SolarWinds Hack: A Cyber Espionage Turning Point. Cybersecurity Weekly. https://www.cyberweekly.com
• O'Neil, C. (2016). Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy. Crown Publishing Group.
• Smith, J. (2022). The Impact of Ransomware Attacks in Critical Infrastructure. Security Journal, 35(3), 211-226.
• U.S. Cyber Command. (2023). Defending the Nation from Cyber Threats. https://www.cybercom.mil
• Warschauer, M. (2020). Digital Inequity and Educational Access. Journal of Information Technology Education, 19, 1-15.