1. What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity encompasses the protection of computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks, unauthorized access, and malicious activities. Its primary objective is to defend against various threats such as malware, phishing, ransomware, and insider attacks. This protection is achieved through techniques like encryption, firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), vulnerability assessments, and user education on security practices.
2. What is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?
A VPN is a service that encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a secure server, masking your IP address and ensuring your online activities remain private and secure, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks.
3. What are the roles of Authentication and Authorization in cybersecurity?
Authentication: The process of verifying the identity of a user or system, typically through credentials like passwords, biometrics, or tokens.
Authorization: The process of granting or denying access to resources and data based on the authenticated identity’s permissions.
4. Explain Cryptography.
Cryptography is the practice of securing information by transforming it into an unreadable format for unauthorized users. It involves converting plaintext (readable data) into ciphertext (encoded data) using algorithms and cryptographic keys. This ensures that only authorized parties can decode and access the original information.
5. How does Encryption function?
Encryption works by converting readable data (plaintext) into an unreadable format (ciphertext) through the use of encryption algorithms and keys. This process ensures that the data remains confidential during transmission. Authorized recipients can use a corresponding decryption key to revert the ciphertext back to its original, readable form.
6. Differentiate between Threat, Vulnerability, and Risk.
Threat: A potential cause of an unwanted incident, which can result in harm to a system or organization. For instance, a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack, can overwhelm a network or server with traffic, rendering it inaccessible.
Vulnerability: A weakness or flaw in a system that can be exploited by threats. An example is outdated software that has not been patched, leaving it susceptible to attacks.
Risk: The potential for loss or damage when a threat exploits a vulnerability. It is calculated by considering both the likelihood of the threat occurring and the impact it would have. Formula: Risk = Threat Probability * Potential Loss.
7. What are some current tools and frameworks used in Cybersecurity?
Metasploit: A penetration testing framework for identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities. The latest version of Metasploit Pro is 4.22.2.
John the Ripper: A password-cracking tool used to identify weak passwords and hash vulnerabilities. The latest jumbo version is 1.9.0.
Wireshark: A network protocol analyzer that captures and inspects data packets. The most recent stable release is 4.2.4.
NetStumbler: A wireless network scanner for Windows systems, currently at version 0.4.0.
Forcepoint: A cybersecurity company offering data protection and threat intelligence solutions.
Aircrack-ng: A suite of tools for assessing Wi-Fi security. The latest version is 1.7.
8. What distinguishes IDS from IPS?
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Monitors network traffic for suspicious activity and alerts administrators. It requires human intervention or another system to act upon the detected threats.
Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): Not only detects but also prevents intrusions. It operates using an up-to-date database of threat information and automatically blocks malicious activities.
9. Define a Botnet.
A Botnet is a network of compromised devices, such as computers, servers, and mobile devices, controlled by malware. It can be used for various malicious activities, including data theft, spamming, and executing distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.
10. What is the CIA Triad in cybersecurity?
The CIA triad is a framework for managing information security within an organization. It consists of:
Confidentiality: Ensuring that information is accessible only to those authorized to view it.
Integrity: Guaranteeing that information is accurate and trustworthy.
Availability: Ensuring that authorized users have reliable access to information when needed.
11. Compare Symmetric and Asymmetric Encryption.
Symmetric Encryption: Uses the same key for both encryption and decryption. It is faster and is typically used for encrypting large amounts of data. Examples include AES and DES.
Asymmetric Encryption: Uses a pair of keys (public and private) for encryption and decryption. It is slower but provides a secure method for exchanging secret keys. Common algorithms are RSA and Diffie-Hellman.
12. What is the difference between hashing and encryption?
Both processes transform data into an unreadable format, but they serve different purposes:
Encryption: Converts data into ciphertext, which can be reverted back to the original data using a decryption key.
Hashing: Converts data into a fixed-size hash value, which is irreversible. Hashing is used for data integrity verification, whereas encryption ensures data confidentiality.
13. What is Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)?
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft, designed to provide a graphical interface to connect to another computer over a network connection. RDP allows administrators and users to remotely manage and troubleshoot systems. It supports multiple data channels and encryption for secure data transfer.
14. How does a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) work?
SSL secures data transmitted between a client and server by encrypting it, ensuring confidentiality and integrity. The process involves an initial handshake for authentication and key exchange, followed by symmetric encryption of data. SSL also uses cryptographic hash functions to maintain data integrity throughout the session.
15. What is Forward Secrecy?
Forward Secrecy, also known as Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS), ensures that even if a server’s private key is compromised, session keys from past communications remain secure. This is typically achieved using key agreement protocols like Diffie-Hellman, which generate unique session keys for each communication session.
16. How to protect data in transit versus at rest?
Data in Transit: This refers to data actively moving between locations, such as over the internet or private network. Protection involves encrypting data before transmission using protocols like SSL/TLS.
Data at Rest: This refers to data stored on physical media like hard drives or flash drives. Protection involves encrypting the data or using encrypted storage devices to prevent unauthorized access.
17. What is the use of Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)?
ARP is used to map IP addresses to physical machine addresses (MAC addresses) in a local network. It translates 32-bit IP addresses to 48-bit MAC addresses, enabling network communication between devices on the same network.
18. What is a zero-day vulnerability?
A zero-day vulnerability is a software flaw unknown to the vendor or developer, with no available patch or fix. Attackers exploit these vulnerabilities before they are discovered and patched, making them particularly dangerous.
19. What is security misconfiguration?
Security misconfiguration occurs when systems or applications are not properly configured, leaving them vulnerable to attacks. This can include default settings, unpatched software, or inadequate access controls.
20. What is the difference between Diffie-Hellman and RSA?
Diffie-Hellman: A key exchange protocol where two parties generate a shared secret key used for encrypting messages.
RSA: An asymmetric encryption algorithm that uses a pair of public and private keys for encryption and decryption. The public key is shared openly, while the private key remains confidential.
21. What is the Chain of Custody?
The chain of custody refers to the documentation and handling process that records the sequence of custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of physical or electronic evidence. It ensures the evidence presented in court is credible and has not been tampered with.
22. What are Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)?
APTs are sophisticated and prolonged cyberattacks typically conducted by well-funded and skilled adversaries, such as nation-states or organized crime groups. They aim to steal sensitive information or disrupt operations over an extended period, using advanced techniques to avoid detection.
23. What is Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)?
EDR solutions focus on monitoring, detecting, and responding to cyber threats targeting endpoint devices like computers, servers, and mobile devices. EDR tools provide real-time visibility into endpoint activities, enabling quick detection and response to security incidents.
24. What is Phishing?
Phishing is a social engineering attack where attackers trick individuals into providing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial details, by posing as a trustworthy entity. This is usually done via deceptive emails, messages, or websites.
25. How can you reset or remove a BIOS password?
There are several methods to reset or remove a BIOS password:
Removing the CMOS battery
Using specialized software
Executing MS-DOS commands
Using a motherboard jumper
Using a backdoor BIOS password
26. What is a Firewall?
A firewall is a network security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet, to block malicious traffic.
27. What is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security process requiring two different authentication factors to verify a user’s identity. It typically involves something the user knows (password) and something the user has (a mobile device or hardware token), adding an extra layer of security.
28. What is BYOD in Cybersecurity?
BYOD stands for Bring Your Device, a policy allowing employees to use their devices for work purposes. While convenient, it introduces security risks as personal devices may not adhere to the same security standards as company-owned devices.
29. What are the indicators of compromise (IOC) organizations should monitor?
Key IOCs include:
Unusual outbound network traffic
HTML response size anomalies
Geographic irregularities
Increases in database read volume
Log-in red flags
Unexpected system patching
High volume of requests for the same file
Web traffic with bot-like behavior
Suspicious registry or system file changes
Unusual DNS requests
Changes in mobile device profiles
Data found in unexpected locations
Mismatched port-application traffic
Signs of DDoS activity
Anomalous privileged user activity
30. What is Social Engineering?
Social engineering is a manipulation technique used by attackers to trick individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise security. It relies on human interaction and often involves deceptive tactics to gain trust.
31. What is Penetration Testing?
Penetration testing, or pen testing, involves simulating cyberattacks on a system to identify vulnerabilities. This proactive approach helps organizations uncover and fix security weaknesses before they can be exploited by real attackers.
32. What is the difference between information protection and information assurance?
Information Protection: Focuses on safeguarding data from unauthorized access using encryption, security software, and other measures.
Information Assurance: Ensures data is reliable and trustworthy by maintaining its availability, authentication, confidentiality, and integrity.
33. What is the CIA Triad in cybersecurity?
The CIA triad is a foundational concept in information security, consisting of:
Confidentiality: Ensuring information is accessible only to authorized individuals.
Integrity: Protecting information from being altered by unauthorized parties.
Availability: Ensuring authorized users have access to information and resources when needed.
34. What is the role of Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)?
ARP is used to map IP addresses to physical MAC addresses in a local network. It translates 32-bit IP addresses to 48-bit MAC addresses, facilitating communication between devices on the same network.
35. What is a Botnet?
A botnet is a network of compromised devices, such as computers and IoT devices, controlled remotely by an attacker. Botnets are used for various malicious activities, including DDoS attacks, sending spam, and data theft.
36. What is a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system?
A SIEM system collects, aggregates, and analyzes security data from various sources within an organization’s IT infrastructure. It provides real-time monitoring, threat detection, and incident response capabilities, helping organizations manage security events more effectively.
37. What are the challenges in securing wireless networks?
Securing wireless networks presents unique challenges, such as:
Unauthorized access points
Interception of wireless signals
Ensuring proper authentication and authorization
Protecting data transmitted over wireless connections
38. What is Active Reconnaissance?
Active reconnaissance involves directly engaging with a target system to gather information about its vulnerabilities. This often includes techniques like port scanning and network mapping to identify potential weaknesses for exploitation.
39. What is the difference between black hat, white hat, and grey hat hackers?
Black Hat Hackers: Unauthorized individuals who access systems to steal information for malicious purposes.
White Hat Hackers: Ethical hackers who secure data by detecting and fixing vulnerabilities.
Grey Hat Hackers: Experts who may violate ethical standards without malicious intent, often working within legal boundaries.
40. Explain port scanning and its techniques.
Port scanning involves scanning a network to identify open ports and services. It is used by security professionals and attackers alike. Common port scanning techniques include:
Ping scan
TCP connect
TCP half-open
Stealth scanning (e.g., NULL, FIN, X-MAS)
UDP scan