6. Cyber Security, Virus & Malware

🔹 6. Cyber Security, Virus & Malware

6.1 Introduction to Cyber Security

In the digital era, computers and the internet are used everywhere—government offices, banks, education, exams, and personal communication. With increased usage, the risk of cyber threats has also increased. Cyber Security is the solution to protect systems and data.

👉 Exam-Friendly Definition:

Cyber Security is the practice of protecting computers, networks, programs, and data from unauthorized access, attacks, or damage.

📌 Cyber security ensures:

Data protection

System safety

Privacy of users

6.2 Need for Cyber Security

Cyber security is required due to the following reasons:

Increase in online transactions

Digital storage of government data

Online exams and applications

Rise in cyber crimes

Use of cloud and internet services

📌 KPSC often asks why cyber security is important.

6.3 Cyber Crime

What is Cyber Crime?

A cyber crime is a crime committed using computers, networks, or the internet.

👉 Definition:

Cyber crime refers to illegal activities carried out using digital devices or networks.

6.3.1 Examples of Cyber Crimes

Hacking

Online fraud

Identity theft

Phishing

Spreading viruses

Data theft

📌 Cyber crimes affect individuals, organizations, and governments.

6.4 Types of Cyber Threats

Cyber threats are activities that can harm a computer system or data.

Major Cyber Threats:

Virus

Malware

Worm

Trojan Horse

Spyware

Ransomware

Phishing

6.5 Computer Virus

What is a Computer Virus?

A computer virus is a malicious program that attaches itself to a legitimate file and spreads from one system to another.

👉 Definition:

A computer virus is a harmful software that replicates itself and damages computer data or programs.

6.5.1 Characteristics of a Virus

Self-replicating

Requires host file

Spreads without user knowledge

Can corrupt data

6.5.2 Effects of Virus

Slow system performance

Data loss

System crashes

Unauthorized access

📌 Virus questions are very common in exams.

6.6 Malware

What is Malware?

Malware is a general term used for malicious software designed to harm computer systems.

👉 Definition:

Malware is any software intentionally designed to damage or disrupt a computer system.

📌 All viruses are malware, but not all malware are viruses.

6.6.1 Types of Malware

🔹 1. Virus

Attaches to files

Needs user action

🔹 2. Worm

Self-replicating

Does not need host file

Spreads through networks

📌 Faster than virus

🔹 3. Trojan Horse

Appears as genuine software

Performs harmful actions secretly

📌 Does not replicate itself

🔹 4. Spyware

Spies on user activity

Steals personal information

Examples:

Passwords

Browsing habits

🔹 5. Ransomware

Locks files or system

Demands money (ransom)

📌 Very dangerous malware

🔹 6. Adware

Displays unwanted advertisements

Slows down system

6.7 Difference Between Virus, Worm & Trojan

Feature

Virus

Worm

Trojan

Self-replication

Yes

Yes

No

Needs host file

Yes

No

No

User action required

Yes

No

Yes

Purpose

Damage

Spread

Steal data

📌 Very important for KPSC MCQs.

6.8 Antivirus Software

What is Antivirus?

Antivirus software is a program designed to detect, prevent, and remove viruses and malware.

👉 Definition:

Antivirus is security software used to protect computers from malware.

6.8.1 Functions of Antivirus

Scans files

Detects malware

Removes threats

Provides real-time protection

6.8.2 Examples of Antivirus Software

Windows Defender

Quick Heal

Norton

McAfee

Avast

📌 Windows Defender is built-in in Windows OS.

6.9 Firewall

What is a Firewall?

A firewall is a security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic.

👉 Definition:

A firewall acts as a barrier between a trusted network and an untrusted network.

Types of Firewall:

Hardware firewall

Software firewall

📌 Protects system from unauthorized access.

6.10 Authentication & Authorization

Authentication

Verifying user identity

Example: Username & password

Authorization

Giving permission to access resources

📌 Authentication comes before authorization.

6.11 Password Security

Good Password Practices:

Use strong passwords

Combine letters, numbers, symbols

Do not share passwords

Change passwords regularly

📌 Weak passwords increase cyber risk.

6.12 Phishing

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a cyber attack where attackers trick users into revealing sensitive information.

Examples:

Fake emails

Fake websites

Fake SMS

📌 Common in banking frauds.

6.13 Cyber Safety Tips (Very Important)

Do not click unknown links

Avoid downloading pirated software

Use antivirus

Keep OS updated

Do not share OTP or PIN

📌 Frequently asked as preventive measures.

6.14 Cyber Security in Government Services

Cyber security is essential for:

Online applications (KPSC, SSC)

Digital payments

Aadhaar services

Online banking

e-Governance

📌 Data protection is critical.

6.15 Cyber Law (Basic Awareness)

India has Information Technology Act, 2000 to deal with cyber crimes.

📌 Only basic awareness needed for KPSC.

6.16 Common Exam Questions Areas

Definition of cyber security

Difference between virus and malware

Examples of malware

Antivirus functions

Firewall purpose

Phishing meaning

6.17 Sample MCQ Areas

Which malware demands money?

Which software protects from virus?

Firewall is used for ___

Spyware is used to ___

✅ Final Exam Tips

Learn definitions clearly

Remember differences

Understand real-life examples

Practice MCQs daily

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