Abstract This paper reviews and discusses various recent cyber-security breaches in the USA. The paper discusses each event, the method used to breach the cyber-security and the response. The paper focuses primarily on the case of Moonlight Maze, one of the most infamous cyber-attacks which occurred in the late 1990s.
From the Paper "The hackers were apparently working from a location in Russia, though this could not be definitively established due to the nature of the infiltration. All that is known for certain is that the hack into Department of Defense computers had been going on for more than a year and that it is entirely unclear how much information was made off with during that time. This is due in part to the fact that in addition to raiding information directly from the Pentagon, the hackers also used that point of entry to enter other sensitive systems throughout the US government. These included networks at nuclear research labs associated with the Energy Department, NASA, and numerous university research facilities (Drogin, 1999). Investigators reiterate that the attackers obtained no known classified information, but the general uncertainty surrounding Moonlight Maze makes this claim dubious at best."
Tags: infiltrations, sensitive, cyber-attack, computer, system, security, breach, hacker, russia
Abstract This paper takes a look at data security, an extremely serious issue in today's technological world. The paper discusses how data security is perhaps the most vital component in any business or industry desiring to retain a secure and advantageous position in the market.
Contents:
Introduction
Data Security Breaches: Attacks and Counterattacks
Attacks Counterattacks and Features
Conclusion
From the Paper "Backups and CDs where the confidential files are saved have become one of the favorite attacking and breeding grounds for crackers because if these backups are updated on the deletions but include all the latest versions being used, then the hacking or access to these backups could be more fatal. A factor leading this trend is the increased security in the server database (Committee on Computing and Communications, 2005). Another important thing to note is that tangible backups kept by a company are far more easier to reach and thus at risk to being stolen by crackers in order to get hold of the sensitive data; which is why their security is as important as software and data stored on the computer. In addition, eavesdropping, i.e. interfering and interpreting encrypting data during its transfer, and its decoding, is emerging as another highly utilized hacking application. Another most common hacking application used currently is to construct a decoy website for an evidently "account information" renewal, a.k.a. as "Phishing" that can easily turn out to be a trap a hole to get into the system and acquire data (Committee on Computing and Communications, 2005). "
Tags: security, breach, decryption, key, secure, file, transfer
Abstract This paper examines how cyber terrorism and hacking have become perpetual threats to national security and economy and how they exist in so many different forms that it is difficult to place them under one specific category. The one thing common in all such crimes is use of computer, which acts as a shield between the criminal and victim, thus protecting the former from immediate detection for possible arrest or prosecution. It looks at how the government, along with intelligence agencies and FBI, is trying to control and protect data available on the most critical networks, including those of the military, and how, although cyber terrorism presents a clear and present danger, with effective measures we can control the possibility of cyberattack, and even if one occurs, our security measures should be designed to help us recover the loss easily and without long-term negative consequences.
From the Paper "Even before the September 11 attacks, intelligence agencies had alerted the nation of the imminent danger from a new breed of terrorist known as cyber-terrorists. President Bush warned the nation that, ?American forces ale overused and under funded precisely when they are confronted by a host of new threats and challenges--the spread of weapons of mass destruction, the rise of cyber terrorism, the proliferation of missile technology." Cyber terrorism in simpler words is terrorism carried out with technologically advanced means where networks play an important role as terrorist illegal gain access to confidential information. This breed of terrorists is certainly more menacing than the ones we had hitherto been trying to root out. Cyber terrorism is dangerous because catching the criminal is a daunting task and because access to sensitive data can wreak havoc as once a person enters a database, it takes a while to detect intrusion and takes even longer to block access."
An insight into the different aspects of cyber crime including a definition, a short history, a few famous and important cases and ideas to curtail it.
Abstract This paper discusses cyber crime, criminal activity which targets computers and information, or which uses computers as the means of committing an offense. It examines how it is a very serious and complicated matter that cannot be taken lightly and how without a true understanding, public and private corporations can easily be mislead in the perspective of its gravity. It shows how this thinking opens up weaknesses in public and private computer systems that the cyber criminal could easily take advantage of and exploit for their own gain. It defines cyber crime, breaking it down into a number of sections giving examples of certain crimes that are often committed under each section. Then it provides a brief history describing the development of new laws for the new crimes, specific cases in history concerning cyber crime and also a description of where cyber crime is today and its impact on the individual and companies who are its victims.
From the Paper "Just like the world of street crime the world of cyber crime needs policing tactics and policing units. Yet the goal of the agencies are not really to prevent, but more to investigate crimes that have already happened; the reason for this is because in cyber space there is no physical area where police can patrol to stop crime. So if policing agencies cannot prevent attacks, not including the use of undercover online operations, then who can? This question can be answered in a few ways. Private companies usually hire experts in the field of computers who can find the companies? weaknesses and where they could be attacked and tighten up their network with certain defenses like firewalls, virus scanners, and other various programs. The individual, on the other hand, has to spend money on programs which will detect intrusions and viruses that have infiltrated their personal system. Private industries that create these programs which protect systems would be similar to companies who produce self-defense equipment and classes, because that is what these programs do; they target-harden and help a victim fight back against their attacker."
Abstract This paper reviews the http://www.cybercrime.gov/ website, which serves as a repository for information on cyber crime. The paper looks at the increased recognition of cyber crime as a serious threat as well as laws that have been passed to combat cyber crime. The paper also provides an overall evaluation of the website that is very favorable.
From the Paper "Combatting the global cyber crime pandemic is becoming an increasingly urgent issue, as identity theft and spyware are occurring with alarming frequency. Early instances of cyber crime found individuals, corporations and law enforcement unprepared, uninformed and immobilized to address cyber crime responsively. This resulted in victims suffering long drawn-out battles to regain their identities. With no guidelines to assist them, many victims endured frustrating battles that yielded little benefit. Corporations likewise faced many obstacles in their uncharted course to recover from data theft and..."
Abstract The topic of cyber crimes encompasses many different crimes. This report defines cyber crime, and goes into depth regarding the specific crime of identity theft. It includes the definition of cyber crime, and specific techniques used to obtain an individual's personal information used to establish false identity, how to prevent the information from being compromised, as well as additional information should one become a victim of identity theft. This paper also includes real world examples stemming from personal experience.
Outline.
Abstract
What is Cyber Crime?
Identity Theft: what is it?
Types of identity theft
Keeping you safe from such crimes
What to do if you become a victim
Conclusion
References
From the Paper "Browsing through the US Department of Justice's Website for the Computer Crime & Intellectual Property Section, cyber crime is a handful of crimes where the primary method of operation or M.O. involves the use of computers or attacks on secure electronic data. The scope of these crimes includes unauthorized access to networks, computers databases, fraudulent money transfers or electronic wire transfers, piracy, espionage and gambling. The invention of the internet creates a new place for people to conduct business, and a very discrete and anonymous place for criminals. Everyday more and more people engage in commerce online, accessing bank accounts and making purchases entirely online. The internet creates a larger arena for crime, and creates more instances of opportunity for crime that requires little technical knowledge and provides a tempting cloak for a person to commit crimes. There are more and more crimes that have moved from the streets to an online environment, taking everyday crime and turning it into a cyber crime. Anything that is illegal, and is committed using computer technology in this virtual environment is cyber crime."
Abstract This paper provides a definition of cyber crime and explores different forms thereof. It asks questions such as - Who commits cyber crime and what is being done to prevent it. It examines the most common crimes committed via the Internet such as software piracy and credit card fraud but also analyzes the scarier crimes such as child pornography and security hacking.
From the Paper "Cyber crime is probably the most talked about form of crime in North America. Parents worry about pedophiles using the Internet to access their children. Businesses spend enormous amounts of money to protect their computer systems from hacker attacks. Many individuals will not use the Internet to shop because they are worried about how secure their credit card information is on the Internet. Is all of this worry, sometimes verging on hysteria justified? Or is it simply a case of fear of a new technology."
Abstract This paper discusses the problems that federal, state and local authorities face when prosecuting cyber identity theft, noting that it is not a simple procedure. The paper explains that individuals that steal the identity of others online often use multiple servers and locations to make it almost impossible to trace the person who is responsible for the identity theft. The paper also explains that when identity theft occurs in a country where traditional Internet crime is not considered a prosecutable offense the country where the nation occurred has a difficult time in locating the criminal and extraditing the identity thief for the purposes of prosecution. Finally, the paper notes that many United States prosecutors are hesitant to prosecute these crimes because they generally involve low profile cases that take extensive amounts of time to investigate and prosecute.
Abstract This paper first defines and classifies panic attacks. The writer discusses diagnostic criteria and looks into the causes of panic attacks. In this paper, the writer examines what panic attacks are and how they relate to anxiety disorders. The writer also discusses why panic attacks are so frequently misunderstood.
From the Paper "The American Psychiatric Association see DSM IV defines anxiety disorders as a group of diagnosable disorders with certain shared features and certain clinical distinctions. The anxiety disorders are typically classified according to the severity and duration of their symptoms and specific behavioral characteristics. The classification categories include; Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) which is long-lasting and low-grade, Panic disorder which has more dramatic symptoms, Phobias Performance anxiety, Obsessive-compulsive ... "
Abstract This paper reviews the use of attack helicopters by the United States Army in Afghanistan, with consideration of changes in military doctrine for the future operational deployment of these forces.
From the Paper "The experiences of the United States Army with attack helicopter operations in Afghanistan provide the basis for continued development of military doctrine for attack helicopter units that will lead to even greater battlefield successes in the future."
Abstract The conception that sharks are creatures dangerous to human beings and who will attack with no warning is a prevalent one. In this paper the author examines a number of incidents where sharks were reported to have attacked human beings and attempts to discover the reality between the reports and actual events. In addition, the author attempts to investigate the factors causing such attacks and to discover if, in fact, the shark is a "man eater"
From the Paper "Under the stillness of even the calmest of seas an age-old drama plays out. Countless times, creatures designed for locating, stalking, chasing, and then tearing into living flesh closes in on its doomed prey. Its efficient design, mouth filled with teeth meant to sink into its prey and never let go, and its swimming speed, agility, and intelligence all but ensure hunting success. After a brief chase, a shark catches up to its prey, its jaws clamp down tightly, and it is all over: just in the same way that the bottle nosed dolphin that humans adore captures another helpless herring in its mouth."
Tags: shark hysteria fear, shark attacks, divers sea beach, man eater
Abstract This paper examines the issue of distributed denial of service attacks and how to use predictive analysis to detect such attacks on computer networks.
From the Paper "Denial of service attacks receive considerable media attention because they have the ability to shut down the Net or at least portions of it. Businesses and individuals alike have come to depend on the World Wide Web for commerce, entertainment and information and the realization that the Web is vulnerable to attack causes concern. Defending against denial of service attacks is an important part of an organization's security plan but can be difficult to accomplish because of ..."
Tags: DDOS, DOS, Distributed denial of service attacks, denial of service
Abstract This paper examines how computers can be used as tools by terrorists and how terrorists can target computers and computer networks in acts of terrorism. The paper contends that the information technology revolution has made both public and private sector computer systems and networks more vulnerable to attacks. It also asserts that the increased dependence on computer systems also makes cyber-terrorism a more menacing threat.
Outline:
Introduction
Cyber-Terrorism
The Threat posed by Cyber-Terrorism
Devastating Potential Consequences of Cyber-Terrorism in the Wake of the Information Technology Revolution
Securing the Nation Against Cyber-Terrorism
Conclusion
From the Paper "According to Theofrastous (2003) the conventional threats associated with attacks to America's IT infrastructure are well-known. However, there are now more sophisticated threats that involve the attacking of the IT infrastructure using unconventional means (Theofrastous 2003). The author points out that from an e-commerce standpoint, the new IT structure involves both business to consumer and business to business contexts (Theofrastous 2003). These contexts have encouraged the establishment of standardization in several important areas including the authentication of electronic transaction and antifraud measures (Theofrastous 2003). "
Abstract This in-depth paper looks at way in which the Internet can be used for terrorist activities. It produces evidence that the FBI has of such attacks that have already been perpetrated and lists examples. The paper also looks at different types of attacks such as worms, viruses, unauthorized attacks, falling sites, 'pingings' and more. It reveals who are the main players in this "game", both groups and individuals.
From the Paper "It has been called "information war? or "cyber terrorism" -- the capability to let loose terror and destruction with a few well-aimed clicks on a computer keyboard. Although it is an unusual and a potentially lethal subject, the public does not know very much about it. However, experts in and around the country, to the top level of the federal government, are taking it seriously.
The FBI defines terrorism as the unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives. Cyber-terrorism can be the use of computing assets to threaten or force others. An example of cyber-terrorism could be hacking into a hospital computer system and changing someone's medicine prescription to a lethal dosage as an act of revenge. It sounds far fetched, but these things can and do happen. Cyber terrorism has also been defined as ?the use of computing resources against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives.?1."
Abstract Cyber crime is one of the most prevalent and most popular rising crimes being committed today. Law enforcement agencies are struggling to keep up with technology and constantly bump into roadblocks to help them stop this growing crime. This paper attempts to analyze current policy and implement policy recommendations that will aid law enforcement officials to police cyber crime. The paper maintains that, while September 11 shifted America's focus from cyber crime to cyber-terrorism, the facts show that cyber crime is far more dangerous to the American public and the economy.
Outline:
Abstract
What is Cybercrime?
Types of Cybercrime: Identity Theft
Types of Cybercrime: Child Pornography and Sexual Solicitation Types of Cybercrime: Organized Crime
Challenges for Law Enforcement Management
Challenges and Current Policy
Statistics
National Strategy to Secure Cyberspace
Improving the way Law Enforcement Identifies and Investigates Cyber Crime
How to Prevent Cybercrime
Conclusion
From the Paper "One aspect of cybercrime is the ability for sex offenders to prey upon unsuspecting individuals over the internet. American's must remember people are not always who they appear to be. One of the critical topics discussed at the White House Conference was the growing threat of cyber-predators. Nearly 30 million children and youth go online annually and 75% of children between the ages of 14 and 17 use the internet. Research by the University of New Hampshire found that one in five children between the ages of 10 and 17 received a sexual solicitation over the Internet in the last year. One in 33 received an aggressive solicitation - a solicitor who asked to meet them somewhere; called them on the telephone; or sent them regular mail, money, or gifts. The Internet is a tremendous educational resource for parents, teachers, and children. Parental, private sector, and government efforts are continuing to improve online child safety and will help make the Internet a safer and ever more valuable tool for children. "
