What you need to know - the syllabus
1.2.6 Hacking and other computer crime
Computer crime includes activities such as the cracking of ineffective security systems in order to gain unauthorised access to commercially sensitive or confidential personal files, and fraud through the
improper transfer of funds from one account to another. Computer criminals may work within the organisation or may be outsiders. Measures taken to combat computer crime include physical security, development of complex security codes and systems, encryption of sensitive data, and monitoring of all attempts to access the system,
whether successful or not. Modern security systems include the use of smart cards (which are slotted into the side of a keyboard and prevent access unless the PIN typed in matches the one stored on the chip) and other electronic devices (e.g. modern passports and security passes contain a chip and/or loop circuit recognised by an electronic reading device).
1.2.7 Computer viruses What is a virus, the affect of a virus on a computer system, how to guard against viruses (e.g. use of appropriate software, firewalls).
1.2.8 Internet security and usage Potential problems with Internet use in the form of, for example:
– viruses
– hacking
– spam
– spyware
– cookies
– phishing
– pharming