The Future of Cyber-Security on Networks, Research Paper Example

Delimitations of the Study

This study examines the future perspectives of cyber-security on that of Government and Corporate networks.  As such the research uses current and historical data to explore trends in this area and consider how research and scientific progress might project developments and uses of cyber-security in the future.  Owing to the rapid pace of technological development over the last 100 years it is difficult to predict future trends of cyber-security with any degree of complete accuracy. We can be certain that technology will be become increasingly more sophisticated and complex, equally those dedicated to criminal activities will be equally resolved in the pursuit of sophisticated means to attack both Corporate and Government systems.

Definition of Terms

• Cyber-Security – Those security measures that need to be undertaken on computer systems technology, networks, communications and data.
• Decipher code – ability for hackers to interpret code
• Encryption – Putting information into code for security purposes
• Spoofing – A network attack on computer systems
• WEP – (Wireless equivalent privacy)
• WPA – (wireless protect access)

Summary

With the rapid pace of technological development how does the Company Security Manager ensure that the Company or Organization remain in a current state of readiness to deal with any proposed threat?  This paper examines the role of the Corporate Security Manager and dealing with cybercrime considering the approach and techniques required in order to maintain operational readiness against potential security breaches. A Corporate Security Manager is an extremely important role and has the responsibility of protecting the Company Assets, developing and implementing corporate security strategies, protecting the welfare of the employees and management of the crisis management team. The person is often selected as an ex-Police Officer, Army security Officer or a security services firm.

The position requires a combination of skillsets including knowledge of law enforcement procedures, health and safety procedures, proficiency with firearms and proficiency in self-defence. There are three critical components of the Security Manager, namely:  Information Technology, Data and Premises.  There will be two more that will require additional but equal concern (i) Communications and (ii) International Terrorism.  This paper considers Computer Security and Cybercrime.

Information Technology has become the life-blood of virtually every organization. Most large business operations contain Data Centre’s of expensive computer and communication systems (hardware) and important client information and programs (software). Together they provide the central back-bone of the organization and as such any threat to these systems can be extremely disruptive and costly to the business.  Security Managers are responsible for the overarching strategy that provides coverage of these important assets.

Internet Crime and particularly illegal entry into other computer systems i.e. hacking is deemed to be a Federal Offence in the USA and falls under the investigative jurisdiction of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).  Criminal computer hacking has been legally defined as any person who willingly and knowingly commits an act of cyber terrorism, credit card fraud, malicious vandalism, identity theft or other cyber-crime by hacking into a Corporate or Government system.  Such criminal acts are treated very seriously in the USA and will be subject to harsh penalties.  Such intrusions are capable of creating a tremendous amount of malicious damage. They may potentially threaten national security, may cause serious service disruptions e.g. hospitals, emergency services etc.