BTEC L3 IT U1 Protecting data and information

Match the following options below into the appropriate category based on their characteristics:

• 1. Viruses and other malware

• Social engineering

• 1. Hackers

• Deliberate intent

• 1. Phishing

• Unauthorised access

• 1. Accidental damage

• Unintentional causes

Answer explanation

Please note that the categorisation above is based on general characteristics, and there can be some overlap in certain cases.

What is the impact of threats to data, information, and systems on individuals?

• Improved efficiency and productivity

• Enhanced collaboration and communication

• Increased risk of identity theft and fraud

• Greater access to online resources and services

Answer explanation

Threats to data, information, and systems can have a significant impact on individuals, and Answer C correctly identifies one of the main consequences. Identity theft and fraud have become more prevalent due to the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks. Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in data and systems to gain unauthorised access to personal information, leading to financial losses, damaged reputations, and emotional distress.

Which of the following statements best describes the impact of threats to data, information, and systems on organisations?

• Threats have no significant impact on organisations' operations and security.

• Threats can disrupt organisations' operations and compromise sensitive information.

• Threats only affect organisations' financial stability and do not impact their operations.

• Threats primarily target physical assets and have minimal impact on data and systems.

Answer explanation

Threats to data, information, and systems can have a significant impact on organisations. Cybersecurity threats, such as hacking, malware, and phishing attacks, can disrupt the normal functioning of an organisation's systems and networks. These threats can lead to service outages, data breaches, and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Organisations rely on data and information for their day-to-day operations, decision-making processes, and maintaining a competitive edge. When these resources are compromised, it can result in financial losses, damage to reputation, legal consequences, and potential regulatory non-compliance.

Therefore, it is crucial for organisations to implement robust security measures and practices to mitigate the impact of threats and protect their data, information, and systems.

What is the encoded form of the word "secure" using a Caesar cipher with a key of 9?

• Jxmnah

• Vmfivn

• Mzlxpz

• Xhjxkx

Answer explanation

Jxmnah. In a Caesar cipher, each letter in the plaintext is shifted a certain number of positions down the alphabet. With a key of 9, each letter is shifted 9 positions to the right. Applying this rule to the word "secure," we shift each letter by 9 positions, resulting in "Jxmnah."

Which of the following techniques is commonly used for protecting data and systems through the use of file permissions?

• Encryption

• Firewall

• Backup

• Access Control Lists (ACLs)

• Anti-virus software

Answer explanation

File permissions are an essential aspect of data and system security. They control the level of access that different users or groups have to files and directories. By setting appropriate file permissions, organisations can safeguard their data and systems from unauthorised access, modifications, or deletions.

Which of the following best describes the process and implications of techniques for protecting data and systems through the use of backup and recovery procedures?

• Backup and recovery procedures ensure that data is never lost and systems are always secure.

• Backup and recovery procedures are unnecessary and can be time-consuming.

• Backup and recovery procedures help mitigate the impact of data loss and system failures.

• Backup and recovery procedures are only applicable to large organisations.

• Backup and recovery procedures can introduce security vulnerabilities.

Answer explanation

Backup and recovery procedures are essential for protecting data and systems in case of unexpected events or failures. They involve creating copies of important data and storing them in a separate location, allowing for data restoration if the original data is lost, corrupted, or inaccessible.

The implications of backup and recovery procedures are significant. By implementing these techniques, organisations can reduce the risk of data loss, minimise downtime, and maintain business continuity. In the event of hardware failures, natural disasters, cyberattacks, or human errors, backup and recovery procedures provide a safety net for recovering lost or damaged data.

Which of the following statements best describes the implications of techniques for protecting data and systems through the use of passwords?

• Password complexity is not important; length alone ensures security.

• Regularly changing passwords is unnecessary and can lead to weaker security.

• Password reuse across multiple accounts poses no significant risks.

• Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances security by adding an extra layer of protection.

• Storing passwords in plain text is a secure practice.

Answer explanation

Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances security by adding an extra layer of protection.

Which of the following techniques is commonly used for protecting data and systems through physical access control?

• Firewalls

• Encryption

• Two-Factor authenication

• Biometric authentication

• Intrusion detection systems

Answer explanation

Physical access control involves implementing measures to prevent unauthorised individuals from physically accessing data and systems.