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Advanced persistent threats (APTs) and Insider Threats

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity has become a vital concern for individuals, organisations, and governments likewise. The ever-increasing sophistication of cyber attacks calls for a comprehensive understanding of the very various threats that survive. Two prominent threats that demand attention are Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) and insider threats. 

This article aims to delve into the world of APTs and insider threats, exploring their nature, impact, and the measures that can be taken to mitigate them effectively. In the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, Advanced Persistent Threats and insider threats emerged as major concerns for organisations worldwide. APTs are sophisticated and targeted attacks orchestrated by skilled adversaries. Meanwhile, insider threats refer to internal individuals exploiting their privileged access to compromise the security of an organisation’s cyberspace or data.

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Understanding these threats is important in developing effective strategies to safeguard sensitive information and critical systems. Additionally, we will also touch upon the role of ethical hacking in combating these threats.

Understanding Advanced Persistent Threats

Definition and Characteristics

APTs are stealthy, long-term cyber attacks conducted by skilled hackers who target specific organisations or individuals. These attacks affect a persistent front within the victim’s web, enabling threat actors to access, gather sensitive information, and execute their objectives covertly.

Targeted Approach

APTs are not random or opportunistic, they are carefully planned and executed. Threat actors conduct thorough reconnaissance to identify vulnerabilities and craft sophisticated attack strategies tailored to their targets. Social engineering techniques, spear-phishing emails, and zero-day exploits are commonly employed to gain initial access.

Persistence and Stealth

APTs aim to remain undetected for prolonged periods, establishing a foothold within the compromised environment. Adversaries employ various evasion techniques, such as utilising encrypted communication channels, disguising their activities as legitimate traffic, and employing advanced malware that can bypass traditional security controls.

Unmasking Insider Threats

Definition and Types

Insider threats involve individuals who have authorised access to an organisation’s systems and exploit this access to cause harm. These individuals can be current or former employees, contractors, or partners. insider threats are classified into three main types: malicious insiders, negligent insiders, and compromised insiders.

Motivations and Insider Attack Vectors

Insider threats can arise due to various motivations, including financial gain, revenge, ideology, or coercion. Attack vectors employed by insiders include unauthorised data access, data exfiltration, sabotage, or facilitating external attacks by providing insider knowledge and credentials.

Recognising Insider Threat Indicators

Recognising potential indicators of insider threats is crucial in mitigating risks. Unusual network activity, excessive data access, changes in behaviour or work patterns, disgruntlement, or financial troubles can be warning signs. Implementing monitoring systems and maintaining open lines of communication can aid in detecting insider activities.

The Implications of APTs and Insider Threats

Data Breaches and Intellectual Property Theft

Both APTs and insider threats can result in significant data breaches and intellectual property theft. Valuable information, trade secrets, customer data, or sensitive government data can be compromised, leading to financial losses, reputational damage, and legal implications.

Financial Losses and Reputational Damage

The financial impact of APTs and insider threats can be substantial. Organisations may face financial losses due to data breaches, theft of funds, business disruption, or the costs associated with incident response and recovery. Moreover, the resulting reputational damage can erode customer trust and loyalty.

Legal and Compliance Consequences

APTs and insider threats can expose organisations to legal and compliance repercussions. Violations of data protection regulations, privacy laws, industry standards, or contractual obligations can lead to severe penalties, lawsuits, and long-term damage to an organisation’s standing.

Preventive Measures Against APTs and Insider Threats

Comprehensive Security Policies and Procedures

Organisations should establish and enforce robust security policies and procedures. This includes implementing strong access controls, regular security assessments, vulnerability management, patch management, and secure configuration practices.

Employee Education and Awareness Programs

Educating employees about cybersecurity best practices and the risks associated with APTs and insider threats is essential. Training programs should cover topics like phishing awareness, social engineering, password hygiene, and the importance of reporting suspicious activities.

Access Controls and Privilege Management

Implementing the principle of ‘least privilege’ and employing strong access controls can limit the potential damage caused by both APTs and insider threats. Regularly review and revoke unnecessary privileges, implement multi-factor authentication, and monitor privileged user activities closely.

Ongoing Monitoring and Threat Intelligence

Continuous monitoring of network and system activities is crucial for early detection of APTs and insider threats. Employing security information and event management (SIEM) systems, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and threat intelligence feeds can aid in identifying suspicious behaviour and indicators of compromise.

Responding to APTs and Insider Threats

Incident Response Planning

Developing an incident response plan is indispensable to minimise the impact of APTs and insider threats. This plan should scheme the steps to be taken in the event of a security incident, including roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, and the coordination of technical and effectual resources.

Forensics and Investigation

In the aftermath of an APT or insider threat incident, forensic analysis and investigation play a crucial role in understanding the scope, impact, and attribution of the attack. Organisations should have the capability to preserve evidence, conduct forensic examinations, and collaborate with law enforcement agencies if necessary.

Remediation and Recovery

Following an incident, organisations must take immediate action to remediate vulnerabilities and recover affected systems. This may involve patching systems, removing malware, reconfiguring access controls, and implementing additional security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Collaborative Efforts and Cybersecurity Solutions

Cybersecurity Information Sharing

Sharing threat intelligence and collaborating with industry peers, government agencies, and security communities can enhance the collective defence against APTs and insider threats. Participating in information-sharing platforms, such as Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), can provide valuable insights and early warnings.

Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Services

Organisations can leverage Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services to enhance their security posture. MDR combines advanced threat detection technologies with skilled security analysts who monitor and respond to potential threats 24/7, providing real-time alerts and incident response support.

Endpoint Protection Solutions

Endpoint protection solutions, such as next-generation antivirus (NGAV) and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools, can play a crucial role in detecting and preventing APTs and insider threats. These solutions employ advanced behavioural analysis, machine learning algorithms, and real-time monitoring to identify suspicious activities and stop threats in their tracks.

The Future of APTs and Insider Threats

Emerging Technologies and Countermeasures

As APTs and insider threats continue to evolve, organisations must embrace emerging technologies and countermeasures. These may include artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) for advanced threat detection, blockchain for secure data sharing, and deception technologies to misdirect and confuse attackers.

Continuous Adaptation and Vigilance

The fight against APTs and insider threats is an ongoing battle. Organisations must remain agile and continuously adapt their security strategies to counter new attack vectors and techniques. Vigilance, proactive monitoring, and regular security assessments are key to staying one step ahead of cyber adversaries.

Conclusion

In an increasingly interrelated reality, the threats posed by Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) and insider threats cannot be ignored. Organisations must adopt a holistic near to cybersecurity, and combine robust preventivemeasures, incident response planning, and collaborative efforts. By discerning the nature of these threats and implementing appropriate security measures, organisations can safeguard their valuable assets and maintain a really strong defense against cyber adversaries.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in ethical hacking and cybersecurity, consider enrolling in Imarticus Learning’s Postgraduate Program In Cybersecurity, a comprehensive cybersecurity course. Gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this exciting field. Visit Imarticus Learning to learn more.

Visit Imarticus Learning to learn more.

The Vital Importance of Information Security Analysts in Today’s Digital Landscape

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

The digital landscape today      

In today’s digital world, keeping businesses secure is a top priority. No matter the size, organisations need to prioritise cyberspace security. Protecting systems and sensitive information is important because data breaches can be a nightmare, causing financial damage and disrupting business flow. With other measures of security, the importance of information security analysts is vital. Specifically, when there is a gap in the demand and supply of such analysts in the workforce. Believe it or not, there were around 40,000 unfilled cybersecurity positions in India as of May 2023. So, let’s understand how to become an information security analyst and grab these awesome job opportunities while they’re hot!

Importance of information security analysts to organisations

To be in charge of the cybersecurity of an organisation, information security analysts have an array of jobs. This includes the protection of software and hardware. It also extends to securing the networks from any unauthorised access, loss or theft. Some of the key responsibilities include:

Improved data protection

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Cybersecurity in 2021

Information security analyst monitors network traffic. They look out for events that may lead to security incidents. They are even required to respond to threats in real-time. They are important to organisations in keeping business objectives and information security aligned.

Increase security compliance

The analysts ensure that the businesses stay compliant with the regulations in cyberspace. In case of any mishap, they prepare detailed incident response reports. This helps organisations in preparedness against such attacks. They help the development of best information security practices and oversee their implementation.

Heighten the risk management

The importance of information security analysts is high. They ensure organisations have all the right protective tools in place. Their responsibilities include:

Implementing encryption programmes.

Installing and monitoring firewalls.

Fixing vulnerabilities whenever they arise.

Increased productivity

Information security analysts improve organisational productivity. They help organisations control their downtime due to cyber risks. They conduct regular threat research. Within the risk assessment, they also perform penetration tests to understand system flaws.

How to become an information security analyst

If you’re planning to enter the field of information security, you need to develop the right job skills. Here is how to become an information security analyst:

Start from the ABC

You can either start a career or make a switch in the cybersecurity field. You can do this by building an understanding of tools and best practices. Start with an introductory course to gather the context of knowledge you will have to master.

Develop information security skills

These include crucial knowledge such as intrusion detection. The goal of detection is to prevent any cyber attack. You would need to learn skills for endpoint management. Also, you would need to understand data security and network security.

Develop workplace skills

The importance of information security analysts is high in an organisation as they have a knack to give attention to details. Other skills include communication and critical thinking. Analysts need to be quick on their feet to think and act fast to contain a breach.

Get certified

To validate your learning, earning a certificate in information security is desirable. Imarticus Learning has curated a comprehensive 6-month course. The course is an experiential learning programme to help launch your career in cybersecurity. Let us understand the course in detail.

Get started in Information Security with Imarticus learning

Imarticus Learning offers cybersecurity courses that are perfect for STEM graduates. But here’s the cool part—they’re not just for fresh grads! Even early career professionals with a tech background can jump in. This postgraduate programme is a result of collaborating with industry bigshots, so you know it’s legit.

Get ready for some hands-on learning, covering everything from tools to software and techniques. Plus, this programme guarantees job assurance—how awesome is that? With a certification from this course, you’ll have a solid foundation in cybersecurity. And guess what? You can even choose to specialise in incident handling or penetration testing as electives. You’ll also earn multiple security certifications, including CompTIA Security+ and EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker. Time to level up your cybersecurity game!

If you are wondering how to become an information security analyst, this course is designed to launch your career in cybersecurity.

At Imarticus, it is our mission to provide you with an unparalleled learning experience. We rely on methods such as project-based experiential learning. This help students gather first-hand experience. We not only provide certification but also make students future-ready. With career services such as resume-building sessions and interview workshops, students are job prepared. There are also mock interviews and placement assurance on completion. So, what are you waiting for? Join our PG programme in cybersecurity and see your career rise.

Discovering Types of Ethical Hacking: What It Is and How It Improves Cybersecurity

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

While navigating through cyberspace, one often comes across the term ‘ethical hacking.’ It might sound confusing at first, but ethical hacking is a crucial component of robust cybersecurity. This blog will help you understand ethical hacking. We will talk about the types of ethical hacking and how it strengthens cybersecurity measures.

Understanding Ethical Hacking

Ethical hacking, in essence, is the practice of legally invading networks or systems. It helps in identifying potential threats, vulnerabilities, and security breaches. Unlike malicious hackers, ethical hackers use their skills and tools to help improve system security rather than exploit it.

They are professionals who think and operate like a hacker to find weak spots before a malicious hacker does.

The Role of Ethical Hacking in Cybersecurity

As we become more reliant on digital solutions, the risk of cybersecurity threats increases. Ethical hackers, with their unique skill set, play a crucial role in protecting our data and privacy.

They evaluate systems, identify vulnerabilities, and suggest improvements. Thus, they help in enhancing the overall security framework.

Different Types of Ethical Hacking

Ethical hacking isn’t a one-size-fits-all practice. There are several types of ethical hacking. For instance, you have Web Application Hacking, System Hacking, Web Server Hacking, and Network Hacking.

Each focuses on different aspects of security. However, all work towards the same goal: strengthening cybersecurity and improving firewalls.

The Legal Aspect of Ethical Hacking

cybersecurity course

The fine line between ethical hacking and illegal hacking is consent. Ethical hackers always have permission to probe the system they’re testing. They work within legal frameworks and adhere to non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). This protects the client’s sensitive information.

It’s crucial to respect these boundaries, as unauthorised hacking, even with good intentions, is illegal.

Impact of Ethical Hacking on Organisations

Organisations are realising the value of ethical hacking. A few benefits of this approach are listed below.

By employing ethical hackers, firms can detect and fix security lapses before they are exploited.

This proactive approach can prevent data breaches.

It saves them from potential financial loss and safeguards their reputation.

Ethical Hacking as a Service

With the growing demand for ethical hackers, many cybersecurity firms now offer ethical hacking as a service. These firms employ certified hackers to test the client’s systems.

After this, they provide recommendations to enhance security. It’s a practical solution for small-scale organisations. This is because they cannot afford an in-house ethical hacking team but can still benefit from their expertise.

Growth Prospects in Ethical Hacking

The future looks promising for ethical hackers. With the ever-increasing reliance on digital systems and the corresponding rise in cyber threats, ethical hackers are needed more than ever.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for ethical hackers is expected to grow 35% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Ethical Hacking and AI

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way ethical hacking is done. With AI, these hackers can automate routine tasks and focus more on strategic issues. AI can also analyse vast amounts of data quickly. It can identify patterns that might be missed by humans.

However, AI brings new challenges, as malicious hackers can use it to launch sophisticated attacks. Therefore, ethical hackers must keep up with these technological advancements.

Career Opportunities in Ethical Hacking

The demand for ethical hackers is on the rise due to the growing significance of cybersecurity. Large industries including healthcare, finance, and retail, are seeking ethical hackers to safeguard their data and systems.

With an ethical hacking course, you can open doors to roles like Security Analyst, Security Engineer, or Data Security Expert.

Skills Required for Ethical Hacking

Ethical hacking demands a unique blend of technical and soft skills.

On the technical front, you’ll need a solid understanding of network protocols, coding, and system architectures. Familiarity with common hacking techniques and the ability to use hacking tools are also essential.

But that’s not all. You also need creative problem-solving skills and a knack for thinking outside the box. Ethical hackers often have to find unconventional solutions to complex security challenges.

An ethical hacking course can give you these important skills and more! This will prepare you for a rewarding career in this field.

Becoming a Certified Ethical Hacker

Obtaining a professional certification like the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) degree can elevate your career prospects. The certification validates your knowledge and skills in ethical hacking. It’s recognised globally, making it a valuable asset for aspiring ethical hackers.

If you’re ready to start your journey in ethical hacking, consider the Advanced Certification Program in Cybersecurity offered by IIT Roorkee. This programme will equip you with the knowledge and hands-on experience to jumpstart your career in cybersecurity. Don’t just observe the digital revolution—be a part of it by becoming a defender of digital systems! Enrol now!

5 Reasons Why Ethical Hacking Is Essential For Businesses Today

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

As businesses expand their online presence, they become increasingly vulnerable to cyber-attacks. This is where ethical hacking comes into play. Through ethical hacking, you can identify the weaknesses and vulnerabilities of your business before attackers can exploit them.

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This article will explore five reasons you need ethical hacking to stay ahead of the game and protect your business from potential threats. Join us as we dive into the world of ethical hacking. Discover why it’s an essential tool for businesses in today’s digital age!

What is Ethical Hacking? 

Ethical hacking involves intentionally and legally exploiting computer systems, networks, or applications with permission from the owner. It is also known as white hat hacking or penetration testing. Ethical hackers are also called penetration testers or security analysts. They use their technical expertise to find organisational vulnerabilities. They perform tasks like network scanning, vulnerability testing, and web application testing to identify weaknesses.

Top 5 Reasons: Why Businesses Need Ethical Hacking?

Ethical hacking works as a shield against cyber threats. It protects your organisation from data breaches, system hacking etc. The below-mentioned top 5 reasons tell the importance of ethical hacking.

Protecting Valuable Digital Assets 

Businesses now rely heavily on technology and data. Ethical hacking is vital to protect valuable digital assets, like intellectual property, customer information, and sensitive data. Without ethical hacking, your business is at higher risk of cyber attacks. This can cause financial and reputational harm.

Proactive Threat Detection and Prevention 

Ethical hacking helps you detect and prevent threats in advance. By regularly assessing and testing your systems, networks, and applications, you can find vulnerabilities and fix them before attackers strike. This proactive approach dramatically lowers the risk of cyber attacks.

Maintaining Customer Trust

Trust is vital for business success. A data breach can damage your reputation and trust. Ethical hacking shows your commitment to data security, ensuring your information is safe. By prioritising ethical hacking, you build trust and loyalty and stand out from competitors.

Compliance with Regulatory Requirements 

Businesses must follow data protection laws like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and CCPA (Central Consumer Protection Authority). These laws have strict rules to protect customer information. Not complying can lead to hefty fines and legal trouble. Ethical hacking helps identify security gaps that could cause non-compliance.

Staying Competitive 

Strong security practices are crucial for business success. Ethical hacking enhances security, protecting customer data and maintaining resilience. It also keeps you ahead of competitors in the industry.

What Happens When Businesses Neglect the Importance of Ethical Hacking?

In today’s connected world, businesses rely on technology and face constant cyber-attack risks. Ethical hacking is crucial for finding vulnerabilities and preventing breaches. Unfortunately, some businesses underestimate its importance, putting themselves at risk.

Breached Data 

Without proactive security measures, your business becomes more vulnerable to data breaches. These breaches compromise customer data, thereby eroding trust. This may result in customer loss harming the reputation and image of your company.

Non-Compliance

Not following ethical hacking can lead to non-compliance with data protection regulations and industry standards. In addition, this puts your business at risk of facing legal consequences. This includes fines, penalties, and legal actions from affected parties.

Risks and Weaknesses 

Ethical hacking finds weaknesses and risks in your business’s digital infrastructure. With it, you can detect vulnerabilities, making you aware of entry points for attackers. This makes it easier to implement necessary security measures.

Advancement and Innovation 

Ethical hacking not only finds security flaws but also helps identify ways to improve and innovate. If you don’t use ethical hacking assessments, you won’t gain valuable insights to enhance your systems, processes, and technologies. This puts you at risk of falling behind your competitors.

Final Words

Ethical hacking helps safeguard your valuable assets from cyber threats. It includes vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, security audits, incident response testing, and security awareness training. By doing these activities, you can enhance your security and reduce risks.

However, to master these skills and techniques, you need the proper training and education. Ethical hacking has a bright future. Therefore, if you are looking for the best courses to learn such skills, you should visit Imarticus Learning, a leading platform in this field. It offers a 6-month extensive PG (Post Graduate) programme in Cyber Security, designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills required to be the best in the field.

Sign up for Imarticus Learning’s Cyber Security Course Today!

Ethical Hacking- A Growing Career Prospect

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

In today’s technologically evolved world, cybersecurity is of topmost priority for individuals, governments and businesses. With the growing risk of cyberattacks, there is a greater need for competent individuals to secure computer systems and networks from unwanted activity. 

Ethical hacking, often known as penetration testing, has been a rapidly growing employment field in recent years. 

This article focuses on the question “What is ethical hacking?” and its importance in protecting digital assets. We will review the potential careers in this industry and the qualities needed to succeed as an ethical hacker.

What is ethical hacking?

Ethical hacking entails authorised efforts to infiltrate computer systems and networks to pinpoint weaknesses and evaluate their level of security. It is crucial for businesses to actively seek out and address shortcomings in their digital infrastructure. Those who perform this type of work, commonly known as penetration testers, use their abilities to uncover possible vulnerabilities and offer suggestions for strengthening security protocols.

Career opportunities in ethical hacking

The demand for ethical hackers has been continuously rising across various industries. Financial firms like banks and payment processors recognise the need to safeguard sensitive financial data and frequently hire ethical hackers to maintain system security. Ecommerce marketplaces, data centres, cloud computing firms, entertainment corporations, media suppliers, and SaaS (Software as a Service) firms all rely on ethical hackers to protect their digital assets.

Roles and responsibilities of an ethical hacker

Ethical hackers, also known as white hat hackers or penetration testers, play a crucial role in strengthening the security of computer systems and networks. Here are some of the key roles and responsibilities of an ethical hacker:

  • Ethical hackers assist organisations in evaluating their security flaws and building mitigation methods by conducting supervised attacks. 
  • They are responsible for carrying out extensive vulnerability assessments on computer systems and networks. They highlight potential entry points attackers could exploit, such as unpatched software, weak passwords, or misconfigurations. They offer organisations insights into their security status and recommendations for improvement through rigorous assessments. 
  • Documenting their findings and compiling detailed reports is one of the most important obligations of an ethical hacker. They describe the detected vulnerabilities, the methods applied to exploit them, and the possible consequences of those vulnerabilities. Ethical hackers also offer remediation recommendations, such as particular methods and best practices for improving security. 
  • Cybersecurity is a continually evolving topic, with new threats and attack strategies appearing daily. Ethical hackers must constantly upgrade their knowledge and stay current on the most recent hacking tactics, tools, and trends. To improve their abilities and keep ahead of potential risks, they must continually study and attend relevant conferences, workshops, and training programmes. 
  • Ethical hackers must diligently follow ethical norms and legal frameworks. They receive written permission from the organisation or individual being tested and work within clearly defined engagement scopes. Ethical hackers prioritise system and network security while retaining integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Unauthorised activity or system hacking without sufficient authority is both unlawful and unethical.

Skills required to become an ethical hacker

To excel in the field of ethical hacking, professionals must possess a diverse set of technical skills and knowledge, some of which are mentioned below:

    • Programming and scripting: Ethical hackers should be familiar with various programming languages like Python and C++ and scripting languages like PowerShell. Knowledge of scripting languages is particularly valuable for writing scripts to exploit vulnerabilities or automate testing processes. 
    • Networking knowledge: Familiarity with network protocols, the TCP/IP stack, subnetting, routing, and network devices such as routers, switches, and firewalls is an essential skill. Understanding network scanning and packet analysis is also necessary for evaluating network security.
  • Operating systems: Ethical hackers should be fluent in several operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. They should know system administration activities, command-line interfaces, and operating system security features. Understanding how various operating systems manage user authentication, file permissions, and access controls is critical for uncovering flaws.
  • Web technologies: Ethical hackers need to know web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and vulnerabilities like XSS and SQL injection to identify and exploit weaknesses in web applications. 
  • Cryptography: Ethical hackers must have an understanding of cryptography, including encryption algorithms, hashing, digital signatures, and secure communication protocols. This knowledge is essential for evaluating the security of cryptographic implementations and finding potential weaknesses in encryption algorithms.
  • Security tools and technologies: Among the various tools an ethical hacker should be familiar with are Nmap, Wireshark, Metasploit, Burp Suite, and vulnerability scanning tools. Understanding defence mechanisms and identifying their limitations requires knowledge of intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), firewalls, and antivirus software.

Conclusion

The need for ethical hackers is multiplying as the digital world expands. Cyber attacks pose increasing risks, and proactive cybersecurity measures are becoming more valuable to all industries. By choosing a career in ethical hacking, professionals can significantly impact the fight against cybercrime while enjoying a challenging and rewarding career path.

Imarticus’s Advanced Certification Program in Cyber Security can be the starting point for individuals seeking a career in ethical hacking. Visit the website for further course-related details.

Ethical hacking courses landscape in 2021

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

Before becoming a certified ethical hacker, you have to understand ethical hacking. Ethical hacking is a legal attempt to gain unauthorized access to a computer system,

including its applications or data.

Ethical hackers, sometimes known as “white hats,” are security professionals who do security audits. They contribute towards an organization’s security posture through their proactive activities. Ethical hacking is different from criminal hacking, and it requires prior consent from the company or owner of the IT asset.

The Cybersecurity course at Imarticus is your gateway to becoming a professional, ethical hacker.

Concept of Ethical Hacking

Ethical hacking is a promising and lucrative career field as companies with online transactions nowadays require an ethical hacker. However, the cyber security course at Imarticus will provide you with rigorous training, but before that, you have to understand the critical concept of ethical hacking.

  • Whatever legal assessment you do in this field should be backed with prior permission.
  • Understand the scope and limitation of the legal assessment.
  • Report all the vulnerabilities uncovered during the evaluation—advice on fixing these flaws.
  • Data is sensitive; therefore, ethical hackers may have to sign a non-disclosure agreement in addition to the terms and conditions imposed by the inspected organization.

Difference Between Ethical Hacking and Criminal Hacking

Ethical hackers put their skills to help the businesses entities to secure and improve their technology. They help these businesses to locate any flaws or loopholes that could lead to a security breach.

While conducting a cyber security check, if they discover vulnerabilities, then they report the same to the corporation. Simultaneously, they also offer guidance on how to fix problems. The ethical hacker often re-tests with the organization’s permission to check that the vulnerabilities are entirely addressed and resolved.

Criminal hackers seek unlawful access to a resource (the more sensitive, the better) to profit or acquire personal recognition. These hackers deface websites or crash backend systems for pleasure, reputation damage, or financial gain. Whatever methods they employ and vulnerabilities they discover gets unnoticed as they are not concerned about the company’s security posture.

Functions of an Ethical Hacker

Ethical hacking seeks to imitate an attacker when evaluating the security of an organization’s IT asset(s). As a part of this process, they look for attack vectors against the target. The initial objective is to conduct reconnaissance and collect as much data as possible.

Once the ethical hacker gathers enough data, they use the same to seek flaws in the asset. They use both automated and manual testing to carry out this evaluation. Even the most advanced systems may be subject to complex countermeasure methods.

The job of an ethical hacker includes continuously uncovering the vulnerabilities and finding the chances of their exploitation by a criminal hacker. Through cyber security certifications, you will know all the aspects of ethical hacking.

In general, an ethical hacker discovers the following vulnerabilities:

  • Assaults by injection
  • Compromised authentication 
  • Mistakes in security
  • Components with known security flaws should not be used

The Cybersecurity program at Imarticus is perfect both for a novice and an expert. It will give you the best chances to enhance your knowledge and skills on the subject.

Cybersecurity recommendations for campaigns and organizations in 2022

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

With the increase in technology, there has also been a tremendous increase in cybercrimes. Hackers find a way to steal data and sensitive information. In the year 2022, it is time to level up security and work towards safeguarding data. 

According to surveys, in 2021, IBM came up with a report on the Costs of Data violation and the enormous increase in Cyberattacks was the highest in the company’s 17 years of the report. There were attacks such as phishing, ransomware and a lot of security had to be enforced to secure emails.

Keeping the current security scenario in mind, it is better to upgrade Cybersecurity and take measures to safeguard data by developing better practices in 2022. Training the employees and helping them take up Cybersecurity training courses can also make the employees more aware and efficient towards Cyber-attacks. 

Phishing of company’s workers has been a commonly used trick by hackers to steal credentials which leads to illegal access and that further leads to ransomware, data breaches, and malware infection. 

Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, several organizations had employees working from home which resulted in maximum usage of cloud storage. This led to more cyber-attacks since most of the security experts in the IT industry weren’t ready for this new change in the working pattern. Several organizations have accepted being victims of Phishing where employees have been tricked by the fraudster. Organisations have ended up losing money for trying to rectify mistakes. 

Cybersecurity practices to follow in 2022 

Organizations need to move forward and adapt newer technology and practices to ensure that there is a decrease in Cyberattacks. Here are a few recommendations: 

  1. Have a team dedicated to Cybersecurity headed by the best experts- Cybersecurity shouldn’t be just a formality on paper. There should be a team of people who work to ensure that no fraudulent cases are happening, and the organization’s data is protected. The team should have a well-thought security policy.
  2. Make sure the employees are on board with the organization in the fight against Cyber-attacks- Most cyber-attacks happen when employees are tricked into giving away valuable information. There are several times when employees fall into phishing traps. Employees should be made to understand the working process of security events. A human firewall and awareness are necessary. 
  3. Engage in instilling skills- If an organization is unable to recruit a team of Cybersecurity experts, then they should work on making the employees take up skills and sharpen their knowledge on Cybersecurity. The trained employees can then tackle curveball situations and fight against any malicious cyber attacks. There are plenty of Cybersecurity training courses available.
  4. Use smart security solutions- organizations should use versatile techniques and adaptive security solutions. Security threats are often difficult to detect hence organizations must invest in good software and update them from time to time. Smart tools can be made use of by an MSP. Foolproof login credentials like two-factor authentication must be deployed to increase security. Server software and applications should be updated to avoid any errors. 

Why are Cybersecurity certification courses important? 

Cyber-attacks are a threat to organizations and they incur huge financial losses every year trying to rectify them. There is a huge gap in the IT industry due to the lack of skilled cybersecurity experts. For individuals who have a keen interest in IT and are looking at pursuing a different career path, Cybersecurity is a great opportunity.

One can also become a Certified Ethical Hacker. Imarticus Learning provides a great platform for students to pave a great career path. Imarticus Learning has a Postgraduate program in Cybersecurity. With the best in the industry mentoring the students, they prepare them for the competitive world. 

How to get started in ethical hacking

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

What is Ethical Hacking? 

Ethical Hacking has lately been gaining a lot of popularity. Ethical Hacking is the process of gaining access to a computer system, app, or data with the authorization of the owner. Ethical Hacking requires strategies and deep knowledge about IT. It is a white hat hacking process, i.e., legal. It is mostly done to increase the security of an organization with the prior permission of the company. 

Certified Ethical Hackers work for the betterment of technology and secure the systems of organizations. They are hired by organizations to look into the vulnerabilities and detect any loopholes in their servers and systems.

Ethical Hackers must keep the organization in the loop and let them know about the plan of action being taken. It is also an Ethical Hackers responsibility to keep all the discoveries and vulnerabilities confidential. 

As opposed to Ethical Hacking, malicious hackers often hack into systems with the intent of stealing sensitive data or causing financial fraud. It is illegal and falls under the black hat category. 

Skills Required To Be an Ethical Hacker

  1. To get into the field of ethical Hacking, one needs to be a graduate in BTech, BSc, or BCA. A diploma in Network Security can also help you qualify to start as a Hacker. 
  2. Ethical Hackers should have deep knowledge about the IT industry and must be proficient in all computer languages. 
  3. Technical Skills are a must. 
  4. Deep knowledge of Microsoft, LINUX, Virtualization, Cisco Network Switches, and Citrix. 
  5. Experience in Network Security. 
  6. Working with different Operating Systems. 

There are many international Certifications offered in Ethical Hacking that is accepted globally. One can become a Certified Ethical Hacker by obtaining these certificates-  

  • Certified Ethical Hacking certificate- EC Council 
  • CompTIA Security+
  • CCNA Security- CISCO 
  • SANS GIAC 
  • Offensive Security Certified Professional Certification (OSCP) 

Courses for Ethical Hacking Enthusiasts

If one is looking at pursuing a career in Ethical Hacking, it is necessary to complete a course in Cybersecurity. Imarticus Learning offers a PG Program in Cybersecurity and provides the best platform and mentors for ambitious students who wish to have a career in Cybersecurity.

The Cybersecurity course is designed to equip students with knowledge of penetration testing and ethical hacking.

The duration of the course is 6 months and topics like network security, cloud security, and application security are also covered. The students are provided with real-world problems in the IT industry and ways to tackle them. 

The faculty at Imarticus Learning provides an extensive learning process and hands-on training for software, tools, processes, and techniques. Along with the course, students are also prepared for various Certification exams like CompTIA Security+, Council Certified Ethical Hacker, and others. Imarticus has also got EC-Council on board to help shape their students and get them certified for the Ethical Hacker Certification exam to better their prospects.

The students undergo rigorous training through mock interviews, workshops, and resume building to help them perform better during placements. The curriculum followed by Imarticus Learning is reviewed and approved by the experts in the field of Cybersecurity.

Students who complete the program are assured placements and they are given interview opportunities with some of the biggest companies and startups to give a boost to their career in Cybersecurity. With guidance and mentoring from the best in the world of Cybersecurity, students will have a guaranteed good learning experience and one on one sessions to clear all their career-related doubts. 

With a holistic approach towards Cybersecurity and an industry-approved curriculum, students who have an interest in the field and wish to make a great career out of it should go for the course. 

An introduction to Cybersecurity certification and capture the flags contest

Posted on by Imarticus Learning

The Cybersecurity course we offer at Imarticus delves into the vast topic of cybersecurity, focusing on the significance of data confidentiality, cybersecurity, best practices for using social media and the internet securely, and prospective job prospects in this rapidly increasing industry. It discusses how to secure your privacy and personal data online and on social media, as well as why cybersecurity knowledge and awareness are becoming increasingly important in IT careers.

We are all increasingly exposed to cyber-attacks in today’s linked society. The cyber security certifications online are for you whether you’re drawn to the relatively new field of cybersecurity professions or just want to safeguard yourself online and on social media.

It delves into cyber trends, risks, and the broader issue of cybersecurity in a way that is personally relevant to you. You will, for example, learn how to safeguard your privacy online and about the issues that corporations, governments, and educational institutions face.

Cybersecurity: Necessity and Opportunity for Every Profession.

From a hazy rumor to an ethereal reality, the phrase has come a long way.

Functioning in an ever-changing, fast-paced, and frequently hostile environment is becoming increasingly challenging for security employees with minimal IT or administrative abilities. As the globe becomes increasingly networked and globalized, the lines between security and technology departments are dissolving and merging.

Every social, commercial, and governmental layer is affected by cybersecurity. To interfere with the US election, a country can manipulate public opinion. Terrorists may attempt to hack into a nuclear power plant’s network. For ransom, a criminal network might take over a company’s database. Hacking into ATMs in Taiwan resulted in the theft of more than $200,000 in one night. Hackers gained access to the computers of prominent stock market investors, allowing them to purchase shares in milliseconds.

To pass on secret information, a manager may be blackmailed for virtual sex (“Sextortion”). With a single mouse click, an employee may download a virus and shut down the firm for a day, resulting in millions of dollars in damages. This is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the possibilities. We must prepare for what is still to come, which we cannot conceive. It is necessary to plan ahead.

Surveillance cameras, physical barriers and high walls, and ongoing training are all part of today’s security systems, yet everything is placed in danger every time someone walks past the security arch with a smartphone and a flash drive, and no one seems to notice.

CTF

Today’s security measures include high walls and physical barriers, surveillance cameras, and continual training, yet everything is put in jeopardy whenever someone passes past the security arch with a flash drive and a smartphone, and no one appears to notice.

To summarize, each CTF’s goal is to complete a sequence of tasks that progressively become more difficult as the number of points indicated in each job increases. These tournaments normally last 2-3 days, after which writeups for each suggested challenge are released willingly, allowing other players to learn about their strategies. If a challenge is not completed by a particular number of teams, the CTF organizers will generally provide some tips to make obtaining the flag, also known as a key, simpler.

CTFs can be classified into the following groups:

  • Miscellaneous [Misc]: Random challenges that can belong to different unspecified categories.
  • Trivia: Different questions related to computer security.
  • Recognition [Recon]: Searching for the flag in different sites on the Internet. Clues, such as a person’s name, are given to solve it.
  • Web: Discovery of vulnerabilities in a web application.
  • Programming [PPC]: Also known as PPC (Professional Programming & Coding), challenges that require developing a program or script that performs a certain task.
  • Reverse engineering [Reversing]: Inferring in the operation of the software. Most commonly, Windows and Linux binaries.
  • Pwning: Discovery of vulnerabilities in a server.
  • Steganography [Stego]: Images, sounds, or videos that hide information inside.
  • Cryptography [Crypto]: Texts encrypted using a specific cryptosystem.
  • Forensics: Most common; memory images, hard disk images or network captures, which store different types of information.

Conclusion

Become a certified ethical hacker by taking one of our Cybersecurity programs. Here at Imarticus, you can study to be a certified ethical hacker and participate in a CTF. Visit our website today to learn more.