Essential Work Habits

 • Data Analysis

-In this paper, I looked at how teenagers can become victims of online sexual exploitation through grooming, sextortion, and AI-generated child sexual abuse material. I discussed how offenders use technology to target teenagers and the effects these crimes can have on victims. I also looked at possible ways to prevent these crimes through education, stronger online protections, and improved laws.

-This paper focused on the XZ Utils backdoor vulnerability (CVE-2024-3094) and how attackers attempted to compromise an open-source software package. I discussed how the attack was discovered and the potential risks it could have created for Linux systems. This helped me better understand software supply chain attacks and why it is important to review code and verify software before using it.

-In this paper, I looked at Microsoft’s ethical responsibilities when it comes to cybersecurity and protecting its users. I talked about topics like user privacy, accountability, and Microsoft’s role in managing Windows security. I also looked at if Microsoft’s actions match its ethical standards and also why it is important for large technology companies to be held accountable.

 • Network Configuration

-For this project, I made a secure Ethernet network for a four-story school building with 74 rooms. Each room needed two Ethernet connections, so I planned the cable runs, network closets, switches, and other equipment needed for the network. I also included security measures like VLANs to help protect the network. This project helped me better understand how much planning goes into designing a reliable network.

-In this assignment, I looked at three different computer components: the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090, and Corsair Vengeance DDR5 memory. I then looked at how each component works, and its advantages and disadvantages.

-This assignment focused on identifying vulnerabilities in a network and then using security tools to protect it. I used Nmap to scan the network for open ports and configured firewall rules through pfSense to block certain types of traffic. After making the changes, I tested the network again to see how the firewall affected connections.

 • Visualization

-For this assignment, I created a PowerPoint presentation about IT infrastructure and the different technologies used to protect computer networks. I discussed tools like firewalls, VPNs, network monitoring, and system logging.

-For this assignment, I observed people at Starbucks to see how their everyday behaviors could create cybersecurity risks. I noticed situations where individuals left laptops and other devices unattended, which could give someone an opportunity to access their information. I then connected these observations to criminological theories to explain how certain behaviors can increase the chances of becoming a victim of cybercrime.

-In this article review, I looked at how cyberattacks can influence people’s opinions about cybersecurity policies. The research showed how exposure to different types of cyberattacks could make people more supportive of stricter security measures. I also discussed how these reactions could create concerns about privacy.