PHIL 355E

Cybersecurity Ethics

This course examines ethical issues relevant to ethics for cybersecurity professionals, including privacy, professional code of conduct, practical conflicts between engineering ethics and business practices, individual and corporate social responsibility, ethical hacking, information warfare, and cyberwarfare. Students will gain a broad understanding of central issues in cyberethics and the ways that fundamental ethical theories relate to these core issues.

Course Material

To complete this ePortfolio page, you should retain the paragraph above, but delete the rest, from this sentence on. Replace this with your End-of-Course Reflection assignment, and create two or more child pages to this page for at least two or more of the Case Analyses you produced through the semester. Don’t just upload all of them—think about which (1) are most relevant to your pathway through the program; (2) are most relevant to your career path, and of most interest to potential employers; and (3) best represent your best work!

Once completed, verify that your WordPress site is set to be visible to other ODU (or public) users, and email your site URL to your PHIL 355E course instructor. Assessment will take place according to the rubric above with the additional requirements (A.) that instructions on the main PHIL 355E page are completed, and (B.) that two or more Case Analyses have been uploaded as child pages to the PHIL 355E page.

Here is a short tutorial showing you how to create child pages for your Case Analyses.

Reflecting on the materials covered in this course, there are three key topics that have resonated with me and have the potential to significantly impact my future career and life. These topics have not only deepened my understanding but have also shaped my perspective on various issues related to cybersecurity and beyond.

  1. Ethical Considerations in Cybersecurity:
    Throughout the course, we delved into the ethical implications of various cybersecurity practices, such as data privacy, surveillance, and hacking. Initially, I approached these topics with a relatively simplistic view, seeing them primarily through the lens of legality versus illegality. However, as I engaged with case studies and discussions, my perspective evolved to consider the broader ethical dimensions involved. I began to appreciate the complexity of balancing security needs with individual rights and societal well-being. The notion of ethical hacking, for instance, challenged my preconceived notions about the morality of certain actions in cybersecurity. While my core belief in the importance of ethical conduct remained steadfast, I gained a deeper understanding of the nuanced ethical dilemmas that professionals in this field face daily. Takeaway: As I move forward in my career, I must remain vigilant about the ethical implications of my actions and decisions. Upholding ethical standards is not merely a legal obligation but a moral imperative that requires ongoing reflection and consideration of diverse perspectives.
  2. Risk Management and Resilience:
    Another critical area covered in the course was risk management and resilience in cybersecurity. Initially, I viewed cybersecurity solely as a technical challenge, focusing on implementing robust defense mechanisms to prevent breaches. However, through studying risk management frameworks and real-world case studies, I came to understand that cybersecurity is as much about managing and mitigating risks as it is about preventing attacks. I gained insight into the importance of adopting a proactive approach that involves identifying vulnerabilities, assessing potential threats, and developing strategies to respond effectively in the event of a breach. Moreover, the concept of resilience highlighted the need to not only prevent cyber threats but also to ensure the continuity of operations and the ability to recover swiftly from any disruptions. Takeaway: In my future endeavors, I must prioritize a holistic approach to cybersecurity that encompasses both prevention and resilience. By integrating risk management practices into my strategies, I can better protect against evolving threats and minimize the impact of potential breaches on organizational operations.
  3. Human Factor in Cybersecurity:
    One of the most eye-opening aspects of the course was the emphasis on the human factor in cybersecurity. While I initially focused on technological solutions and defense mechanisms, I came to realize that human behavior plays a significant role in shaping cybersecurity outcomes. Whether it’s through social engineering attacks, insider threats, or inadequate cybersecurity awareness among employees, human vulnerabilities can often be exploited by malicious actors. This realization underscored the importance of integrating human-centric approaches into cybersecurity strategies, including training and awareness programs, as well as fostering a culture of security within organizations. Takeaway: As I embark on my career journey, I must recognize the critical role of human behavior in cybersecurity and advocate for comprehensive strategies that address both technical vulnerabilities and human factors. By promoting a culture of security and empowering individuals to become active participants in safeguarding digital assets, I can contribute to creating more resilient and secure environments.

In conclusion, the materials covered in this course have not only equipped me with technical knowledge but have also broadened my perspective on the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity. By grappling with ethical dilemmas, embracing risk management principles, and acknowledging the human dimension of cybersecurity, I am better prepared to navigate the complexities of this rapidly evolving field. As I move forward, I will carry with me the key takeaways from this course, striving to uphold ethical standards, integrate risk management practices, and prioritize human-centric approaches in my future endeavors.