The Science of Cyber Security

The imagery that the word "attack" creates is one of fantasy... some shady, techno-super genius sitting at a computer, furious typing away. In reality, hacks occur as a result of stupidity. Users rely on passwords that are easily guessed. Computers are set to use Internet Explorer (the most unsecure browser in creation). Network software is also ripe with SQL vulnerabilities.

A vast majority of this can be remedied by installing a secure web browser with sufficient script blocking software. Network admins also need to patch up basic vulnerabilities. Or perhaps companies need to stop outsourcing their IT to India. Network maintenance requires a capable person on site.

Talk of some pie in the sky solution with some "immune system" distracts from reality. You would do your readers more credit by educating them about the "science" of hacking instead of describing the problem as something mythical and grand that only elite people are capable of accomplishing.

Furthermore, any "damage" cause by such "attacks" are solely the responsibility of the person or organization that established the network. Hackers exploit vulnerabilities. Very rarely do "attacks" consist of a physical manipulation or some other action that could be compared to a burglar smashing a window to gain entrance.

Hackers merely walk through open doors. Close the doors and lock them. That's the only way to dissuade unwanted guests from gaining entrance.

wtflolnoob of IL 11:52AM September 15, 2011