The Final Project Emphasizes Computer Security Best Practice
The Final Project Emphasizes Computer Security Best Practices You Wil
The Final Project emphasizes computer security best practices. You will be provided with a couple of scenarios related to firewall setup, phishing, virus, malware and spyware protection, privacy, SSL and certificates, Trojans, password strength, and browser cookies. Based on these scenarios, you will write a brief paper describing the threats associated with the scenarios and possible steps to mitigate these risks. Final project scenarios: 1. You just received a brand new computer for your home environment. It comes with the latest Operating System. You also have an Internet Service Provider where you can easily use the existing network to connect to the Internet and to perform some online banking. Describe the steps you plan to go through to ensure this system remains as secure as possible. Be sure to discuss the details of firewall settings you plan to implement within your operating system, browser privacy settings, and recommended software (e.g., Anti-virus and others) you will install. Also, describe your password strength policy you plan to adopt, and what you envision to do to ensure your online banking site is encrypted and using the proper certificates. Discussion of operating system patches and application updates should also be included. As you discuss these steps, be sure to justify your decisions bringing in possible issues if these steps are not followed. You can discuss this for a specific type of computer (e.g., MAC or PC) to make the scenario more appropriate for your environment. 2. Your son, who just turned 13, wants to join Facebook and post his picture and contact information on the site. Assuming, you are willing to allow him to have a Facebook account, describe what types of guidelines you would discuss with him to ensure his privacy and security are protected. Be sure to justify your decisions by describing possible issues if your guidelines are not followed. Submission requirements: Prepare a well-written paper, no more than 10 pages in length, addressing each of the above scenarios. Be sure to clearly separate the scenarios into separate sections of the paper.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
The rapid advancement of digital technology has significantly increased the importance of cybersecurity practices in both personal and family contexts. From securing personal devices to safeguarding children’s online activities, understanding threats and implementing appropriate measures are critical. This paper explores two distinct scenarios: securing a new home computer for banking and everyday use, and establishing safe social media guidelines for a 13-year-old child. Each scenario highlights potential threats and offers best practices to minimize risks and enhance safety.
Securing a New Home Computer for Online Banking
Initial Setup and Patch Management
The first step in securing a new computer involves promptly installing all operating system updates and patches. Manufacturers regularly release security updates that fix vulnerabilities exploitable by cybercriminals (Microsoft, 2023). Delay in applying these updates can leave systems open to malware attacks, ransomware, and unauthorized access. Therefore, enabling automatic updates ensures the device remains protected against emerging threats.
Firewall Configuration and Network Security
Configuring the built-in firewall within the operating system is vital for controlling inbound and outbound network traffic (Symantec, 2022). For Windows users, this entails activating the Windows Defender Firewall and customizing rules to restrict unnecessary connections. Mac users should adjust the Firewall settings via System Preferences. Additional measures include disabling sharing options and enabling network discovery only when necessary. Combining firewall protections with a secure Wi-Fi network—using strong WPA3 encryption and a unique router password—is essential to prevent unauthorized network access.
Browser Privacy Settings and Secure Connections
Web browsers should be configured to block third-party cookies, disable pop-ups, and enforce HTTPS connections whenever possible. Enabling private or incognito mode minimizes data storage during browsing sessions, reducing exposure (Kaspersky, 2022). Prior to conducting online banking, verifying the site’s HTTPS certificate ensures data encryption in transit. Looking for a padlock icon and the certificate details confirms the site’s legitimacy.
Antivirus Software and Other Security Tools
Installing reputable antivirus and anti-malware software forms a crucial defense layer (NortonLifeLock, 2022). These tools detect and remove malicious programs, phishing attempts, and other threats in real-time. Complementary tools like anti-phishing browser extensions, password managers, and VPNs further enhance security (McAfee, 2023). Regularly updating these applications safeguards against latest threats.
Password Policy and Authentication Best Practices
Strong, unique passwords reduce the risk of credential compromise. A recommended policy involves creating passwords at least 12 characters long, combining uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols (OWASP, 2023). Using password managers simplifies handling complex passwords and prevents reuse across multiple sites. Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds another security layer, especially for sensitive services like online banking (Google, 2023).
Encryption and Certification Considerations
To ensure secure online banking, verifying the website’s SSL/TLS certificate is critical. Modern browsers display certificate information, ensuring genuine encryption. Additionally, banking institutions often employ Extended Validation (EV) certificates that provide visible trust indicators. Regularly updating the browser and security certificates helps maintain trustworthiness and guard against man-in-the-middle attacks.
Additional Security Measures
Implementing a comprehensive backup strategy—including regular backups to an external drive or cloud service—protects data from hardware failure or malware encryption (IDC, 2022). Lastly, avoiding public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions, or using a VPN when connected, further reduces the risk of interception.
Potential Risks if Steps Are Not Followed
Neglecting timely updates exposes the system to known vulnerabilities, which hackers routinely exploit (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, 2023). Poor firewall configuration can allow malware and unauthorized access, leading to data breaches. Using weak passwords increases the likelihood of account compromise, especially if 2FA is not enabled. Insecure browsing or unverified certificates can result in interception or data theft during financial transactions.
Guidelines for a 13-Year-Old on Facebook
Introduction
Allowing minors to access social media platforms involves balancing the benefits of connectivity with the risks of privacy violations and cyber threats. Proper guidelines help children navigate online environments safely, reducing exposure to cyberbullying, predators, phishing scams, and data harvesting.
Privacy Settings and Personal Information Sharing
I would instruct my son to restrict the audience for his profile to "Friends only" and avoid sharing personally identifiable information such as contact details, home address, or school name (Federal Trade Commission, 2022). Emphasizing the importance of not posting photos that reveal secure locations or schedules can prevent stalking or harassment.
Understanding and Avoiding Phishing
Teaching him to recognize suspicious messages or links can prevent falling victim to phishing scams, which seek to steal login credentials or install malware (FTC, 2023). He should be wary of unsolicited contact and understand that legitimate organizations do not ask for sensitive information via social media.
Managing Privacy Settings and Content
It is important to review and adjust privacy controls regularly, enabling options that hide profile details from strangers. Discussing the permanence of online posts and encouraging thoughtful sharing discourages impulsive or regrettable content (Cyberwise, 2022). Using privacy tools provided by Facebook, like activity logs and content review features, can provide further control.
Supervision and Open Communication
Maintaining an ongoing conversation about online experiences fosters trust and awareness. Monitoring his activity discreetly without infringing on privacy builds a safe environment for discussing concerns or uncomfortable encounters (NetSmartz, 2022).
Risks of Non-Compliance
Without proper guidelines, my son could overshare personal data, risking identity theft or stalking. Exposure to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or predatory behavior may occur if privacy settings are neglected. Furthermore, reckless posting could damage his reputation or lead to peer problems.
Conclusion
Implementing robust security measures for personal devices and setting clear, informed boundaries for children’s online activity are essential components of modern cybersecurity and digital parenting. Timely updates, vigilant configuration, and education on privacy foster a safer internet experience. Neglecting these practices can result in serious consequences—from data breaches to emotional harm—highlighting the importance of proactive security and responsible online behavior.
References
Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency. (2023). Protecting your device and data. https://www.cisa.gov
Cyberwise. (2022). Talking to kids about online safety. https://cyberwise.org
Federal Trade Commission. (2022). Protecting children's privacy online. https://consumer.ftc.gov
Google. (2023). Two-step verification options. https://support.google.com
Kaspersky. (2022). Browser privacy settings: A guide. https://www.kaspersky.com
McAfee. (2023). Enhancing security with VPNs and password managers. https://www.mcafee.com
NortonLifeLock. (2022). Internet security solutions overview. https://us.norton.com
OWASP. (2023). Password policies and management. https://owasp.org
Symantec. (2022). Firewall best practices for home networks. https://symantec.com
Microsoft. (2023). Keeping Windows secure with updates. https://support.microsoft.com