Where does the term “hacker” come from?

The term “hacker” originated in the 1960s at MIT, but it had a positive connotation . Originally, hacker was used to describe skilled computer whizzes. Over time, it evolved to include those who exploit systems or distribute malware. Nowadays, hackers are categorized into “white-hat” (ethical hackers), “black-hat” (malicious hackers), and “grey-hat” (those who fall between), reflecting the complexity of their roles in cybersecurity.

How do threats keep up with modern cybersecurity tools?

Modern cybersecurity tools like antiviruses keep up with complex modern threats by implementing a combination of traditional signature-based malware detection with heuristic analysis. Recently, AI-powered detection models have become a vital component of many antiviruses (and some viruses too). Governments also frequently pass bills and policies to improve national cybersecurity defenses. For example, the US created agencies like CISA to protect the federal government from hackers. At the same time, private companies are encouraged to constantly release security updates for their products to thwart hackers.

How have threats changed since the early days of cybersecurity?

Early cybersecurity threats were often simple experiments or pranks, such as the Creeper virus in the 1970s. But it didn’t take long for malicious actors to start using their talents and knowledge of vulnerabilities to cause real harm, either for personal gain or just to create havoc. Nowadays, cybersecurity deals with a far wider range of threats. These include viruses that destroy data, websites designed to steal personal information, and even broad-based attacks that can cripple public infrastructure.

How can you protect yourself from modern threats?

The easiest way to protect yourself from threats is by installing a quality antivirus. Products like Norton and Bitdefender come with advanced malware scanners, a secure firewall for network protection, a VPN for data encryption, and a lot more. Without a good antivirus, it’s almost impossible to protect yourself from every nasty strain of malware on the internet.

Bài viết bởi Tyler Cross

Tyler Cross

Tyler là một tác giả viết bài tại SafetyDetectives với niềm đam mê nghiên cứu mọi thứ liên quan đến công nghệ và an ninh mạng. Trước khi gia nhập đội ngũ SafetyDetectives, anh đã làm việc thực tiễn với các sản phẩm an ninh mạng trong hơn 5 năm, bao gồm các trình quản lý mật khẩu, phần mềm diệt virus và VPN, đồng thời tìm hiểu mọi thứ về các trường hợp sử dụng và chức năng của chúng. Khi không làm việc với tư cách là một "Thám tử an toàn", anh thích tìm hiểu lịch sử, nghiên cứu các cơ hội đầu tư, viết tiểu thuyết và chơi Dungeons and Dragons với bạn bè.