Information Security
Information Security or Infosec is the practice of protecting information by mitigating information risks. This involves protecting information from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, perusal, inspection, recording, or destruction. Information security's primary focus is the balanced protection of the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data, also known as the CIA triad.
History
The roots of Information Security can be traced back to the ancient times when communication and information were secured through methods like ciphers and seals. However, the modern era of Information Security began with the advent of computers and the internet:
- In the 1960s, with the development of time-sharing systems, issues of computer security became prominent. The 1967 Multics operating system introduced several security concepts like access controls and rings of protection.
- By the 1970s, encryption standards like the Data Encryption Standard (DES) were developed, providing a foundation for securing digital data.
- The 1980s and 1990s saw the rise of personal computing and the internet, leading to an increase in cyber threats and the establishment of organizations like CERT (Computer Emergency Response Team) to address these growing concerns.
- The turn of the millennium highlighted the need for Information Security with high-profile incidents like the Love Bug virus and the establishment of laws like the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in the US, which had implications for information security practices.
Context and Concepts
Information Security encompasses several key areas:
- Confidentiality: Ensuring that information is accessible only to those authorized to have access.
- Integrity: Safeguarding the accuracy and completeness of information and processing methods.
- Availability: Ensuring that authorized users have access to information and associated assets when required.
- Non-repudiation: The ability to prove that a particular event or action occurred, thus preventing denial by a party involved.
- Authentication: Verifying the identity of users or systems.
- Authorization: Determining what an authenticated user is allowed to do.
- Auditing: Monitoring and recording security-relevant activities.
Current Challenges
Modern Information Security faces challenges like:
- Cyber Attacks: Including malware, phishing, ransomware, and advanced persistent threats (APTs).
- Insider Threats: Employees or insiders who intentionally or unintentionally compromise security.
- Data Breaches: Unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data.
- Cloud Security: Ensuring security in cloud computing environments.
- Mobile Security: Protecting data on increasingly prevalent mobile devices.
Standards and Frameworks
Several standards and frameworks guide organizations in implementing Information Security:
- ISO/IEC 27001: An international standard for managing information security.
- NIST SP 800-53: Security and Privacy Controls for Federal Information Systems and Organizations.
- Cybersecurity Framework by NIST: A voluntary framework promoting the protection of critical infrastructure.
External Resources
- SANS Institute - Provides training and certifications in information security.
- ISACA - Focuses on IT governance, security, audit, and assurance.
- (ISC)² - A global not-for-profit organization for information security professionals.
- CERT - Coordinated efforts in incident response and security best practices.
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