Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/cyber-threats-attack-vectors

Introduction

### Course Review: Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors on Coursera In today’s digital landscape, understanding cybersecurity is more crucial than ever. With data breaches happening almost daily across industries, knowledge of how attackers infiltrate systems and compromise sensitive information is vital for individuals and organizations alike. If you’re looking to enhance your cybersecurity knowledge, Coursera's course titled **"Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors,"** part of the Practical Computer Security series, offers an in-depth exploration of this pressing issue. #### Course Overview "Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors" is designed to equip learners with a comprehensive understanding of the various threats and common attack methods prevalent in today’s technological environment. It answers essential questions such as the ways attackers gain access to systems, what they do with stolen data, and how learners can protect their own businesses or systems. This second course in the Practical Computer Security specialization is particularly well-suited for individuals seeking to grasp the tactical aspects of cybersecurity. #### Syllabus Breakdown The course is structured into clear modules, each addressing a distinct aspect of cyber threats: 1. **User-Based Attacks**: This module dives into the human element of cybersecurity, demonstrating how attackers often target individuals rather than systems. The focus here is on recognizing social engineering tactics and potential vulnerabilities that arise from user behaviors. 2. **Network and System-Based Attacks**: This section covers the most common methods of attack against networks and systems. Learners will gain insights into intrusion techniques, as well as defensive strategies that can mitigate these risks. 3. **Cloud Security**: Given the prevalence of cloud services in our daily operations, this module emphasizes the security challenges associated with cloud computing. It discusses various cloud models and the specific vulnerabilities they may present. 4. **Common Vulnerabilities**: Here, the course examines typical weaknesses found in systems, which can be exploited by attackers. This week also provides practical knowledge on how to identify and address these vulnerabilities effectively. 5. **Data Breaches**: The course culminates with a focus on data breaches, their frequency, and the lessons learned from notable incidents. It encourages students to think critically about security practices and includes a project to apply knowledge gained throughout the course. #### Course Experience The course features concise video lectures, engaging readings, and interactive quizzes designed to reinforce learning. The instructional materials are delivered at an accessible pace, making it suitable for both beginners and those with prior knowledge of cybersecurity. Additionally, the project component offers a hands-on opportunity to synthesize the information learned, allowing students to conduct a risk assessment of a hypothetical or real-world scenario. #### Recommendation I wholeheartedly recommend **"Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors"** for anyone interested in enhancing their cybersecurity acumen. Whether you are a student, a business professional, or just a curious individual, this course provides critical insights into the workings of threats in the digital realm. By enrolling in this course, you not only gain valuable theoretical knowledge, but you also equip yourself with practical skills that are increasingly relevant in our tech-driven society. As we rely more on technology, understanding the threats that come with it is essential. This course is an invaluable investment in yourself and your future in cybersecurity. Don’t wait until you or your organization falls victim to an attack—arm yourself with knowledge and take the proactive step of learning about cyber threats today through Coursera.

Syllabus

THREATS AND ATTACK VECTORS IN COMPUTER SECURITY

Welcome! This week we'll explore users and user based attacks. User based attacks are common because it may be easier to compromise a human rather than a computer.

Threats against networks and systems are the most common type of attack method. This week will explore these concepts.

You use the cloud every day; you may not even realize it! This week will focus on the cloud and security surrounding cloud and cloud services.

The week will focus on common vulnerabilities that systems face and how they work.

Data breaches occur daily. Sometimes they are announced right away, other times they are found out months after the compromise. This week will focus on the course project.