Cyber security protects systems, networks, and data from digital attacks. With increasing online threats, understanding security concepts — encryption, authentication, firewalls, and legal frameworks — is crucial.
Encryption: converting data to unreadable form (ciphertext) — only authorised parties can decrypt. Symmetric encryption: same key for encrypt and decrypt (AES). Asymmetric: public key to encrypt, private key to decrypt (RSA). HTTPS uses both (TLS/SSL). Authentication: verifying identity. Factors: something you know (password), something you have (OTP to phone), something you are (fingerprint, face). 2FA: combines two factors — much more secure than password alone. OAuth: "Login with Google" — secure third-party authentication.
Firewall: monitors and filters network traffic based on security rules. Types: hardware firewall (router-level), software firewall (on each device). Malware: viruses (attach to files), worms (self-replicate over network), trojans (disguised as legit software), ransomware (encrypt files, demand payment), spyware (secretly monitor). Ethical hacking: authorised security testing — find vulnerabilities before attackers do. Indian IT Act 2000: legal framework for electronic commerce and cybercrime. Section 66: hacking is punishable. Section 43: damage to computer systems — liable for damages. CERT-In: India's cyber emergency response team.
Ethical hacking (penetration testing) is authorised security testing where experts attempt to break into systems to find vulnerabilities — before malicious hackers do. It IS legal when: (1) You have written permission from the system owner. (2) You follow responsible disclosure (report findings, don't exploit). (3) You stay within agreed scope. Without permission, it's illegal hacking — punishable under IT Act. Careers: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), OSCP certifications. Bug bounty programs: companies like Google, Facebook pay ethical hackers for finding bugs.
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