Cyber Security

A firewall is a security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic. It follows a set of pre-defined security rules. Think of it as a security guard at the gate of a building. It decides which data packets are allowed to enter and which should be blocked. It helps in preventing hackers from gaining access to your private network. Example: Most modern computers have a built-in software firewall to block suspicious internet traffic.

Phishing is a type of social engineering attack. Here, the attacker pretends to be a trusted person or organization. They usually send an email or a message with a link. When you click the link, it takes you to a fake website that looks exactly like a real one. If you enter your login details there, the attacker gets them immediately. Example: An email that looks like it is from your bank asking you to 'verify your account' by clicking a link.

Malware is any software specifically designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system. It is a broad term that includes viruses, worms, and trojans. A virus attaches itself to a clean file and spreads when that file is opened. A worm is more dangerous because it can copy itself and spread across a whole network without any human help. Example: The 'WannaCry' attack was a famous malware that affected thousands of computers worldwide.