Cyber Security
Suspicious Cyber Activity and Online Threats
The “war on terror”is constantly evolving. In recent years, terrorists have turned to unconventional weapons, such as cyberterrorism. And as a new, more computer-savvy generation of terrorists comes of age, the danger seems set to increase.
Cyber terrorism can refer to a number of different behaviors that involve abnormal access patterns, database activities, file changes, and other out-of-the-ordinary actions that can indicate an attack or data breach. Being able to recognize these activities is important as it can help pinpoint the source and nature of the breach, allowing you to act quickly to correct the security threat and minimize damage.
Together, we can mitigate cyber security threats by terrorists and violent extremists. This includes countering the threat of cyber-attacks carried out by terrorist actors against critical infrastructure, as well as developing the use of social media to collect digital information to counter online terrorism and violent extremism.
The potential threat posed by cyberterrorism has provoked considerable alarm. Numerous security experts, politicians, and others have publicized the danger of cyberterrorists hacking into government and private computer systems and crippling the military, financial, and service sectors of advanced economies. Cyberterrorism is, to be sure, an attractive option for modern terrorists, who value its anonymity, its potential to inflict massive damage, its psychological impact, and its media appeal.
Here are some of the most common examples of suspicious activity:
Testing or Probing of Security
Abnormal database activity can be caused by either internal or external attacks, and the crucial signs to watch for include changes in your users, changes in permissions, and unusual data content growth.
Cyberattack
Disrupting or compromising an organization’s information technology systems
Database activity
Abnormal database activity can be caused by either internal or external attacks, and the crucial signs to watch for include changes in your users, changes in permissions, and unusual data content growth.
Account abuse
The abuse of privileged accounts is one of the most common signs of an insider attack, and symptoms to watch for are modified audit trails, sharing of account access, and the accessing of sensitive information without need.
File changes
Configuration changes to files—including replacement, modifications, file additions, and deletion—is a classic sign of a data breach, because it indicates somebody has infiltrated your network and is trying to prevent being discovered.
SafeOC's Analog Awareness Mission:
SafeOC is dedicated to raising awareness about the risks of analog security gaps. Our mission is to educate the public and businesses on how analog and digital systems are essential to modern security. Understanding the vulnerabilities in both realms can create a more effective and comprehensive approach to safety.
Why Analog Awareness is Crucial for the Community
Analog awareness focuses on the often-overlooked offline security risk outside the digital world while complementing digital security practices. It empowers communities to address digital and physical vulnerabilities, creating a more secure and resilient environment.
A Balanced Approach to Safety:
Analog awareness ensures that both digital and physical security are prioritized, creating a more comprehensive safety strategy
Disaster Recovery:
Analog systems, like paper records and emergency kits, are essential during digital outages or cyberattacks. Preparation for analog recovery is just as important as digital backup.
Raising Security Standards:
Adopting analog security practices creates a ripple effect, improving safety across neighborhoods, schools, and businesses.
Closing Security Gaps:
People often prioritize digital security and overlook physical risks, like unsecured entry points or misplaced keys. Analog awareness helps address these vulnerabilities.
Preventing Identity Theft and Fraud:
Fraudsters still rely on non-digital methods like dumpster diving or stealing mail. Raising awareness about offline security helps protect against these threats.
Building Trust:
Physical security—like proper document disposal and lock protection—directly impacts community trust. Analog awareness strengthens confidence in shared spaces.
Educating on Social Engineering:
Many offline tactics, such as impersonation or "shoulder surfing," can lead to identity theft. Analog awareness teaches people to spot these threats.
Crisis Preparedeness:
In emergencies, analog tools (e.g., radios, printed maps) are critical when digital systems fail. Awareness ensures communities are better prepared for these situations.
Empowering Vulnerable Populations:
Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly or less tech-savvy, benefit from analog awareness by staying safe without relying on technology.
How SafeOC Can Help:
Raising Awareness of Offline Risks: SafeOC educates communities on securing physical space, such as locking doors, storing sensitive documents, and reducing offline vulnerabilities. Workshops and campaigns bring attention to these risks.
Training on Analog Security Practices: SafeOC offers resources on using strong locks, shredding documents, and securing physical assets to protect individuals offline.
Promoting a Holistic Security Approach: SafeOC creates educational content emphasizing digital and analog security.
Developing Checklists and Resources: SafeOC provides practical checklists and toolkits for businesses and individuals to assess and improve offline security measures.