Journal Entry #1

A thorough framework for classifying and arranging the cybersecurity personnel is offered by the NICE personnel Framework. Despite having a background in social science, there are aspects of the framework that I find interesting. “Securely Provision,” which includes organizing, putting into practice, and overseeing security solutions, is the category that most interests me. This field combines my passion for addressing issues and helping to create safe systems.

Nonetheless, as they concentrate more on routine system maintenance chores, sections like “Operate and Maintain” might not be as appealing to me. Although crucial for cybersecurity as a whole, I am more interested in positions involving strategic planning and execution. In the end, the “Securely Provision” category speaks to my goal to have a significant influence 

Journal Entry #2

Within the field of cybersecurity, scientific principles form the basis for comprehending, reducing, and adjusting to the ever-changing terrain of cyberthreats. Observation is essential because cybersecurity experts keep a close eye on network activity and look for trends to spot irregularities or possible intrusions. By mimicking cyberattacks and conducting penetration tests, experimentation is essential in identifying gaps and vulnerabilities in systems. Defenses can be improved by using this empirical method, which takes real-world situations into account.

Moreover, understanding the complex nature of cyber risks requires methodical investigation. The lifecycle of a cyberattack can be divided into discrete phases with the use of scientific approaches like the Cyber Kill Chain model, which makes a methodical and tactical defense strategy possible. This method of analysis allows specialists in cybersecurity to disrupt possible attackers at different phases and proactively fix weaknesses. The science of cybersecurity essentially encourages a proactive and flexible mentality. In the constantly changing digital ecosystem, cybersecurity professionals can build strong defenses, keep ahead of emerging threats, and construct resilient systems by embracing observation, experimentation, and rigorous analysis.

journal entry #4

Five levels of human motivation are described by Maslow’s Hierarchy of demands, ranging from basic physiological demands to higher-order psychological ones. There are several ways to observe these demands in the context of technology. Basic physiological demands are satisfied by technology, which makes it easier to get access to shelter, food, and medical treatment. Apps for tracking health are one example, as are online grocery purchasing. Digital security solutions that meet safety requirements, such as two-factor authentication and encryption, give users a sense of security while interacting with digital content. Social media platforms provide social needs by fostering worldwide connections and satiating people’s innate need for companionship and communication. Esteem needs to find expression in online recognition and validation, such as through likes, comments, and followers on social media, creating a sense of success.

Finally, platforms for learning and skill development can be used to pursue self-actualization, which promotes individual development and potential realization. People can follow their interests and goals, for example, by making use of online classes and virtual skill-building environments.

journal entry #6

Internet safety depends on being able to distinguish between phony and legitimate websites. Phishing and other fake websites frequently use misspelled URLs (“bannk” instead of “bank”) to mimic real websites. Online retailers that are fraudulent may entice customers with absurdly low costs, use insecure payment methods, and display questionable contact details. Sites that impersonate well-known brands use identical domain names or logos to trick visitors. Genuine banking websites, on the other hand, guarantee security with HTTPS connections and reliable SSL certificates. Reputable online presences and favorable evaluations bolster the features of legitimate e-commerce platforms, which also stress safe payment processing, thorough product information, and easily accessible contact information. Official websites for organizations have expert designs, precise domain names, and verified contact details—often accompanied by a track record of respectable operations.

Poor website design, grammatical mistakes, unreliable connections, dubious URLs, and insufficient contact information are typical ways that fake websites reveal their true identity. Reputable websites put a high priority on user protection, communicate clearly, and provide information that can be independently verified. Users should be very careful, make sure websites are legitimate, and avoid giving personal or financial information on dubious platforms.

journal entry #8

 was thinking about how much of an impact the media has on how we see cybersecurity today. It was clear to me as I browsed through different news sources and social media sites that how cybersecurity is portrayed in the media has a big impact on how the public views, is aware of, and even acts in this crucial area.

First of all, cybersecurity incidents are frequently sensationalized by the media, which highlights their dramatic impact and possible repercussions. News reports of ransomware attacks, data breaches, and cyber espionage make people nervous and afraid. While it’s important to draw attention to how serious these instances are, the sensationalized accounts may obscure the underlying technological problems and systemic problems that lead to these vulnerabilities. 

Furthermore, the way cybersecurity is portrayed in the media frequently feeds prejudice and false beliefs. The common portrayal of hackers as sinister masterminds or hooded people hiding in the shadows feeds into a limited and frequently false perception of those working in cybersecurity. The various motivations, histories, and ethical considerations present in the cybersecurity sector are not taken into account in this oversimplified representation.

In addition, the media’s portrayal of cybersecurity frequently ignores the wider range of cyberthreats that smaller businesses and individuals must contend with in favor of highlighting high-profile attacks against governments or major firms. By ignoring the fact that everyone with an internet connection is potentially exposed, this selective reporting can give people the impression that they are not major targets for cyberattacks.

Positively, the media is essential in spreading best practices for digital safety and increasing public awareness of cybersecurity risks. Videos, opinion pieces, and articles frequently provide insightful information about new cybersecurity trends, risks, and doable advice for protecting individual and company data. The media pushes people and companies to improve their digital resilience by drawing attention to cybersecurity breaches and their aftermath.

But it’s important to view cybersecurity media coverage critically, acknowledging the inherent biases, sensationalism, and oversimplifications that could skew our perception of this intricate field. As media consumers, we should make an effort to look for different viewpoints, consult reliable sources, and develop a sophisticated knowledge of cybersecurity concerns that goes beyond the news. 

In conclusion, it is clear that the media has a big impact on how we perceive cybersecurity and how the general public views, feels, and behaves in an increasingly digital world. Through the promotion of a more knowledgeable and astute attitude towards media consumption, we can enhance our ability to manage the intricacies of cybersecurity and make the internet a safer and more secure place for everybody.

Journal entry #10

Emerging as a subdomain of national security, social cybersecurity has the potential to significantly impact future conflict in both conventional and unconventional ways, with far-reaching strategic ramifications. Fundamentally, social cybersecurity aims to comprehend and forecast changes in human behavior, societal dynamics, and political outcomes that are mediated by cyberspace. It seeks to strengthen the fundamental qualities of society against changing cyberthreats.

Technology has made it possible for state and nonstate actors to influence the worldwide flow of ideas and opinions at a speed never seen before, making it harder to distinguish between information warfare and conventional combat in the modern day. According to Dmitry Kiselev, information has evolved into a key tool for advancing one’s narrative at the expense of weakening and upending the communities, cultures, and values of rivals. 

Examine conventional ideas about national power. These days, information is just as important as military, diplomatic, and economic strength. If left unchecked, the emergence of “information blitzkrieg” techniques has the potential to produce strategic outcomes akin to the physical blitzkrieg tactics employed during World War II.

Crucially, social cybersecurity is distinct from traditional cybersecurity in that it prioritizes human targets above information systems. This paradigm, which is frequently referred to as “cognitive hacking,” makes use of developments in psychology, targeted marketing, and the social sciences to plan coordinated information operations that have a significant strategic impact.

Social cybersecurity is an interdisciplinary area that incorporates elements of political science, sociology, marketing, communication science, linguistics, anthropology, and social psychology. computational instruments including machine learning, network analysis, geographical analysis, and semantic analysis

journal entry #11

The video sheds light on the duties and competencies expected of a cybersecurity analyst, outlining the position’s responsibilities. Upon scrutinizing the job description for cybersecurity analysts, a number of societal themes become apparent. In order to reduce cyber dangers, the speaker first stresses the value of teamwork and communication skills, emphasizing the necessity for analysts to engage with stakeholders, coworkers, and even enemies in an effective manner. This emphasizes how important social dynamics are in cybersecurity, as good cooperation and information sharing are frequently necessary for a successful defense. The speaker also touches on the significance of keeping abreast of market developments and new threats, emphasizing the value of social media platforms and communities for professional growth and knowledge sharing in the cybersecurity space. Additionally, the focus on problem-solving and critical thinking demonstrates collaboration the complexity of social and technological environments analysts must traverse when tackling cybersecurity issues in order to protect digital assets and networks. Overall, the presentation highlights the interdependence between social dynamics and cybersecurity practices by emphasizing the critical role that social behaviors like networking, communication, and collaboration play in the work of cybersecurity analysts.

journal entry #12

This article’s literature analysis emphasizes the growing significance of bug bounty programs in improving cybersecurity, especially in light of the ever-changing landscape of cyber threats. It describes how opinions about vulnerability disclosure rules have changed over time, noting important support from well-known people like Rod Rosenstein and official actions by the US Department of Homeland Security. The evaluation also emphasizes how much money businesses have spent on bug bounty programs, indicating that they are effective at finding and fixing cybersecurity flaws. The review also discusses the reasoning behind bug bounty programs, highlighting how they can enhance internal security protocols and use a variety of skill sets to find flaws. It talks about things like program age, industry dynamics, brand profile, bounty amounts, and time to resolution that affect the supply of security researchers. The literature review, which highlights the gaps in current research and the need for a more thorough knowledge of bug bounty program success, essentially sets the setting for the empirical analysis carried out in the article. This comprehensive research adds to ongoing discussions regarding cybersecurity strategy and best practices and serves as a strong basis for the analysis that follows.

journal entry #13

Eleven often-done online behaviors that can be against the law have been listed by Andriy Slynchuk. The top five most serious offenses are: breaking into computer networks, sharing content that is protected by copyright without authorization, harassing or stalking people online, sharing child pornography, and taking part in cyberterrorism. In addition to violating privacy, hacking into computer systems can seriously harm people, companies, and even national security. Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted content compromises the integrity of intellectual property laws and denies authors their just compensation. The safety and well-being of people are seriously threatened by online harassment and stalking, which fosters a hostile environment that can result in both psychological damage and even physical assault. Spreading child pornography helps to continue horrific crimes against children and the mistreatment and exploitation of weaker people. Lastly, cyberterrorism actions are a serious threat to national security and public safety, with the potential to result in significant disruption, financial loss, and fatalities. These actions are especially serious because they can have serious repercussions that affect individuals, communities, and society at large, in addition to breaking laws and regulations.

journal entry 15#

As I consider the career path of a digital forensics investigator, I see a fascinating convergence with the social sciences. Understanding social dynamics and human behavior is fundamental to this line of work, even though technical proficiency in cybersecurity and data analysis is still highly valued. Not only does digital footprint investigation demand technological expertise, but it also calls for an understanding of human psychology, sociology, and criminology. 

The investigator needs to understand the societal context in which cybercrimes occur, as well as the motivations behind digital acts and behavior patterns. This combination of social awareness and technical know-how highlights the value of interdisciplinary approaches in contemporary investigative work. 

I’m fascinated by the speaker’s career path when I think about it; it combines a deep-seated interest about human nature fostered by the social sciences with technological aptitude refined through study and experience. It’s a route that captures the dynamic nature of contemporary investigative journalism, where technology and people interact in fascinating ways.