Encryption is the process of converting plain text into a coded or encrypted form that is unreadable by anyone except those who have the decryption key. The purpose of encryption is to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.

There are many different types of encryption, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some of the most common types include symmetric encryption, asymmetric encryption, and hash functions.

Symmetric encryption, also known as private key encryption, uses the same key for both encryption and decryption. This means that the sender and the receiver must both have a copy of the same key in order to encrypt and decrypt the message. The key is typically a string of characters or a number, and it is used to encrypt and decrypt the message using a mathematical algorithm. One of the most widely used symmetric encryption algorithms is the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which is used to encrypt data in a wide range of applications, including online transactions, file transfers, and communications. The main advantage of symmetric encryption is that it is relatively fast and efficient. However, it also has a major drawback: the key must be exchanged between the sender and the receiver, which can be difficult and insecure.

Asymmetric encryption, also known as public key encryption, uses two different keys: one for encryption and another for decryption. One key, the public key, is used to encrypt the message, and the other key, the private key, is used to decrypt the message. The public key can be freely distributed, while the private key must be kept secret. The most widely used asymmetric encryption algorithm is the RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) algorithm, which is used to encrypt and decrypt data, as well as to generate digital signatures. The main advantage of asymmetric encryption is that the private key does not need to be exchanged between the sender and the receiver. However, it is generally slower and less efficient than symmetric encryption.

Hash functions are one-way encryption methods that are used for digital signature and password verification. A hash function takes an input (or ‘message’) and returns a fixed-size string of characters, which is called the ‘hash value’. The same input will always produce the same hash value, but even a small change to the input will produce a completely different hash value. Hash functions are often used to store passwords in a secure way, as the stored password cannot be reversed back to its original form. The most widely used hash functions are SHA-256 and SHA-512.

Encryption is important because it helps to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This is particularly important in today’s digital age, where personal information, financial data, and other sensitive information is stored and transmitted electronically. Encryption can also be used to protect the confidentiality of communications, such as emails and instant messages, as well as the integrity of data stored on a computer or network.

Encryption can be used to protect the privacy and security of personal information, such as credit card numbers, social security numbers, and other sensitive data. It can also be used to protect the confidentiality of business information, such as financial reports, legal documents, and other sensitive data. In addition, encryption can be used to protect the privacy of communications, such as emails, instant messages, and phone calls.

Encryption is also important for businesses and organizations of all sizes. It can help to protect against data breaches and cyber attacks, which can lead to the loss of sensitive information and financial losses.

There are several types of hackers, each with different motivations and techniques. Some of the most common types of hackers include:

1. Black hat hackers, also known as crackers, are those who use their skills to cause harm to computer systems and networks. These hackers seek to access confidential information, steal data, disrupt online services, and cause other malicious damage.

2. Grey hat hackers, are those who do not intend to cause harm, but whose actions may be considered illegal or ethically questionable. They often seek to access systems to obtain confidential information or to test the security of systems.

3. White hat hackers, also known as ethical hackers or pentesters, are those who use their skills to help organizations improve their computer security. These hackers seek to identify vulnerabilities in systems and provide reports and recommendations for improving security.

4. Green hat hackers, are those who use their skills in order to help environmental, sustainable development and animal welfare causes. They use ethical hacking techniques to raise awareness and promote positive changes in society and the environment.

5. Red hat hackers, are those who represent states, corporations, and organizations that seek to obtain valuable information for competitive or political advantage. They are a serious cyber threat due to their sophisticated resources and capabilities.

It’s worth noting that these are just some of the most common types of hackers, and that many hackers may fit into multiple categories. Also important to remember that regardless of type, most hackers use similar techniques to gain access to systems, and use similar security tools and techniques to protect them.

Web spoofing, also known as phishing or spoofing attack, is a type of online scam where the attacker creates a fake website that is designed to look like a legitimate one, in order to trick users into entering their login credentials or personal information. The goal of a web spoofing attack is to steal sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal data, by tricking the user into believing that they are interacting with a legitimate website.

The goal of website spoofing is to steal sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal data, by tricking the user into believing that they are interacting with a legitimate website.

Web spoofing attacks often use fake emails or social media messages to lure users to a fake website, where they are prompted to enter their login credentials or personal information. The attackers may also use malware to redirect users to a spoofed website without their knowledge.

How to do a web spoofing attack

To carry out this type of attack, different techniques can be used to attract the user’s attention to the fake website:

• The attacker can put a link to the fake website on a known website.
• If you know the user’s email, it is possible to send an email that includes the link to the fake website.
• You can modify the original website with the fake one in real time by executing javascript code or installing plug-ins.

Types of web spoofing attacks

They can be divided mainly into two:

Passive attack: The attacker passively observes the traffic of the attacked user, gathering information about the pages visited. The information that the user enters in the different forms, which will be sent to the web servers, is acquired by the attacker. In this way, it is possible to obtain sensitive information such as usernames and passwords, as well as banking information.

Active attack: The attacker can modify any information that travels between the attacked machine and the different web servers. For example, once the user submits some form to make a transaction, the attacker can modify both the recipient and the amount. Likewise, the attacker can also modify the information sent from the web server to the user.

Prevention, identification and action against web spoofing

To protect yourself from web spoofing attacks, it’s important to be cautious when entering your login credentials or personal information online. Always verify the authenticity of a website before entering sensitive information, and be sure to use strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. It’s also a good idea to use two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security.

Web spoofing is hardly detectable; Perhaps the best measure is a browser plugin that shows the IP of the server visited at all times: if the IP never changes when visiting different web pages, it means that we are probably suffering from this type of attack.

There are some web services, such as the website desenmascara.me ,than can help detecting if a web is being impersonated or not.

If you are being targeted by web impersonation or phishing attacks, do not hesitate to contact us. We will carry out a study of your case and we will help you to eliminate this type of web from the network.

There are many cybersecurity myths and misconceptions that can lead people to make incorrect assumptions about the risks they face online. Here are some of the most common cybersecurity myths:

Cyber ​​criminals are external attackers

Despite the belief that external attackers within organizations are to be feared, the most significant cybersecurity breaches are often the result of internal attackers working alone or in conjunction with external hackers. These insider attackers can be part of well-organized groups, even supported by states or nations.
Insider threats are on the rise and can include employees, vendors, contractors, business partners, or outside intruders posing as a worker. Such insider threats are responsible for 60% of data breaches that occur today.

Vulnerabilities, attack vectors and risks are known

The risk exposure surface is continually expanding with thousands of new application and device vulnerabilities emerging every day. Security breaches due to human error, caused by negligent employees or contractors, are also increasing.
Cybercriminals find new attack vectors all the time, including Linux systems, operational technology (OT), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and cloud environments.
In short, it is very difficult to be aware of all the attack vectors that can be targeted.

My sector is safe

All industries have their share of cybersecurity risks, as cybercriminals exploit the communication network needs that exist in almost every organization, both public and private. For example, ransomware attacks are targeting more industries than ever before, including local governments and non-profit organizations. On the other hand, threats to supply chains, government websites and critical infrastructure have also increased. Anything that has a presence on the Internet can be attacked.

Too much security decreases productivity

There is a belief that increased security makes it even more difficult for employees to access what they need for their daily work. Although strict security policies can slightly hinder productivity at work, removing them can have dire consequences. A successful ransomware or DDoS attack can bring a business to a standstill for days and sometimes weeks.

Cybercriminals only attack large companies

Small and medium-sized companies are one of the main targets of hackers, because only 14% of them are prepared to defend themselves, as opposed to large companies that usually have more security measures deployed.
Small and medium-sized businesses are generally more worth attacking for cybercriminals because they have less security, so they could more easily sneak ransomware into them and then demand ransom for the files.

An antivirus and antimalware is enough

Antivirus and antimalware software is a good starting point for end users. However, it only protects one entry point. Hackers have many ways to infiltrate networks with targeted phishing attacks and ransomware, something that would encrypt all company data and its servers.
Despite the fact that the chances of being infected with a good antivirus are really low, malware creators are becoming more and more sophisticated. It may happen that the antivirus will update the detection of that virus or malware after the user has already been infected, making it ineffective.
Therefore, a comprehensive security solution is needed, such as a web application firewall and an intrusion detection and prevention system trained to detect any possible attack, known through signatures or unknown through heuristics. Thanks to this, threats can be continuously monitored and end-to-end protection provided at all times.

Cybersecurity is too expensive

Cyberattacks cost companies millions, yet companies still wonder if cybersecurity investments are worth it. Data security is often overlooked at the cost of a data breach or theft, which is typically in the millions of dollars. To this must be added the damage of loss of reputation and loss of customers that can be caused to companies.
In this regard, the costs of a good cybersecurity solution will be much lower than if a successful cyberattack occurs. When it comes to cybersecurity, it should not be considered as an expense, but as an investment because our business will be more protected from any possible attack.

I don’t need cybersecurity because I’ve never had an attack

In the event that you have never had a computer attack, it is most likely that you have not been aware of it or that you do not know the extent of the damage produced. You have to seriously analyze it and avoid taking the risk. The threats and techniques of cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated and undetectable.

Covering the computer webcam is nonsense

It may seem like a “low-tech” solution, but that doesn’t mean it’s useless. A simple band-aid, sticker or post-it is the most effective measure against webcam hacking.
Keep in mind that not only the laptop/computer camera can be hacked, but also the tablet, iPad or mobile phone, so we recommend that you also use security measures on the cameras of these devices.

I have a Mac and Macs don’t have viruses

The reality is that the increase in the use of any Apple product, such as its Mac computers, has made these devices a striking target for hackers and more and more Trojans are attacking the platform and, from time to time, some malicious software in the AppStore.

Only computers have viruses

Any device with an operating system that governs it is susceptible to an attack or an infection. Mobile malware, which can attack smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, increased by 58% over the past year. These malicious programs can steal information such as phone numbers or email addresses, and even use the device’s GPS to track the user.

Only disreputable sites are unsafe

61% of the websites that can spread “malware” are legitimate portals that have been infected and compromised with malicious code. Business, technology and shopping portals are in the top 5 types of websites with the highest number of infections.

I don’t see anything weird on my device, so I don’t have any malware

Do not expect that if your device has a virus, a full screen image will appear that says “HELLO I AM A VIRUS AND I AM INFECTING YOU”. Even the most simple and minimalist of programs can hide vulnerabilities and security holes and, therefore, host viruses. That is why it is important to always update the device and antivirus software.

Who is going to want to hack me?

The automation of crime and the bots carry out constant raids on the Internet in search of new victims whom they can infect. Even if you’re not famous, or trying to blend in online, the wide variety of illegal activity software can challenge your computer’s security.
In addition, the volume of fraudulent phishing emails being sent each day is so high that it is very likely that sooner or later you will receive a fake message. While users who use the Internet frequently are more likely to become victims, anyone who uses the Internet is vulnerable to threats.
The target is often not you, but your machine. Huge botnets of zombie nodes are created with the infected devices, which at the moment their controller wants to carry out an attack and they start working, it can be millions of devices that trigger a DDOS attack and your device will be one of them.

Conclusions

Cybersecurity is a continuous process of adaptation in which we must constantly update ourselves to prepare for new threats. In this regard, we should never abandon the security of our company, business or digital device for daily use.
There is no maximum security but minimum insecurity. The cybersecurity landscape is advancing and it is necessary to have constant good security practices such as:
• Review security policies periodically.
• Perform security audits.
• Have the devices continuously updated.
• Invest in new security measures to the extent possible.

Finally, the biggest security hazard for cybercriminals to attack your digital devices is misinformation. It is very important to stay informed about security best practices as much as possible.

Blockchain is a set of technologies that allow a secure, decentralized, synchronized and distributed record of digital operations, without the need for third-party intermediation.

Summing it up a lot, it is a big ledger in which the records (the blocks) are linked and encrypted to protect the security and privacy of the transactions. In other words: a secure database, thanks to encryption, which can be applied to all types of transactions, not only financial but to everything of value.

Each of the data blocks is protected and linked to each other, allowing the participation of certain users (each one associated with a block). Thus, the transaction is not verified by a third party, but by the network of nodes (computers connected to the network), which is also the one that authorizes any update in the Blockchain by consensus.

To give an example, you can think that company A wants to send money to company B. When doing it with blockchain, the transaction is represented as a block of data, which is transmitted to each of the parties that make up the network.
The latter must approve the validity of the operation. The money moves and the block will be added to the chain, thus generating the immutable and transparent record.

Therefore, blockchain technology fulfills the function of registering, preserving and protecting the information of any type of digital operation, without the intervention of third parties. In other words, it operates as a shared and continuously updated database, making it easy to share assets and manage smart contracts, among other options.
In practice, it can be used in an endless number of industries in tasks that go beyond the exchange of money, such as accounting records, product traceability in the supply chain, medical and identity record management, loyalty plans. , contracts and dispute resolution.

In the world of cybersecurity, different types can be differentiated depending on which part of the system is acted on, the moment in which it is applied and whether it is intended for an individual or a company.

The types are as follows:

1. Software Cybersecurity

Software cybersecurity is responsible for protecting the integrity of the operational support of a computer system. The software is made up of the applications and programs installed on the devices and the operating systems that manage them. These systems are vulnerable to different types of attacks that can cause damage from operation to information theft.

A software can have defects that involve from the design, to failures in error handling and buffer overflows. The high frequency with which intruders access without authorization is what motivates the constant development of updates in order to correct errors on the fly.Thus, computer software security is one that is intended to guarantee the protection of the operating system and the programs within it, being key to protecting data, avoiding access to confidential information and guaranteeing the correct functioning of applications.

2. Hardware Cybersecurity

Hardware cybersecurity is the one that seeks to protect the integrity of the physical support of a computer system. And it is that the hardware is the set of physical elements and devices that represent the components or accessories of a computer.Computer hardware security is intended to guarantee the protection of the physical equipment from the perspective of the well-being of the machine itself through security modules, encryption, authentication, etc.

In order to have a notion of the security of a device and how to strengthen it, the weak points that the devices have since their manufacture are evaluated and how they could be victims of an attack.Hardware protection tools include hardware firewalls and proxy servers, used to control network traffic. In addition, there are hardware security modules (HSM) that are responsible for providing encrypted keys for different systems.

3. Network Cybersecurity

Network cybersecurity is made up of all actions aimed at protecting the access, use, integrity and security of the network and the data that flows through it. It seeks to protect the integrity of the information during the processes of issuing and receiving it between different computer systems, preventing it from being intercepted and decrypted by a third person along the way.

There is no single measure capable of protecting against all threats, therefore several levels of protection must be placed. These levels can be antivirus, firewalls or firewalls, VPN virtual private networks and IPS and IDS intrusion prevention systems.

4. Personal Cybersecurity

Personal cybersecurity is that which is applied to an individual user in a private environment. Therefore, information security guidelines affect a particular device user, with a computer equipment that has a single owner. This is the cybersecurity with the greatest reach, since it is estimated that there are more than 7,000 million smartphones and more than 2,000 million personal computer

5. Corporate Cybersecurity

Corporate cybersecurity applies to a company in a business environment. It has a very high impact, since failures in the security systems do not only affect a user, but also the company itself and its possible clients and suppliers. This, together with the fact that there is increased interest from cybercriminals, makes it essential that there are contracted or subcontracted cybersecurity teams that are in charge of monitoring the security of these corporations.

6. National Cybersecurity

National cybersecurity is applied to computer systems that are part of a State network. Thus, we are not dealing with an individual or a company, but with the entire computer network of a country. Therefore, strategies must be implemented to protect all confidential data of the State, since a cyberattack can represent a serious crisis for the nation.
In Spain we have organizations like the National Cryptological Center or Incibe.

7. Active Cybersecurity

Active cybersecurity refers to the protection strategies that are deployed when the defenses of a computer system have been attacked. Once an attack has occurred, strategies are initiated to combat this cyberattack and protect the attacked system and, if necessary, recover the stolen information.

8. Passive Cybersecurity

Passive cybersecurity refers to all those protection strategies that prevent cyberattacks. They are always active, forming solid defenses that prevent computer attacks from occurring, anticipating such threats before they occur and generating walls that must have as few breaches as possible.

9. Physical Cybersecurity

Physical cybersecurity is closely related to hardware cybersecurity and is based on an analog protection of the system. In other words, it is a traditional and rudimentary security that consists of keeping physical elements away from any physical danger related to environmental damage such as fire, water, dust and, ultimately, any external agent that may compromise functionality. of the apparatus.

10. Logical Cybersecurity

Logical cybersecurity is any form of security that cannot be carried out analogically, since it involves all those active and passive cybersecurity tasks that are related to the protection of software and data and information contained in computer programs.