N5 Computing Science: Security Precautions

What are viruses, worms, and Trojans classified as?

• Types of computer hardware

• Types of operating systems

• Types of malicious software

• Types of programming languages

Answer explanation

Viruses, worms, and Trojans are classified as types of malicious software, which are designed to harm or exploit computer systems.

What is unauthorized access to computer systems or data commonly known as?

• Phishing

• Spamming

• Hacking

• Browsing

Answer explanation

Unauthorized access to computer systems or data is commonly known as hacking, where individuals gain entry without permission.

By the end of the topic on security precautions, you should be able to describe the role of what in protecting computers?

• Antivirus software

• A firewall

• A password manager

• An operating system

Answer explanation

A firewall plays a crucial role in protecting computers by monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.

Apart from firewalls, what else should you be able to explain by the end of the topic on security precautions?

• The concept of social engineering

• The meaning of encryption

• The purpose of a web browser

• The function of an email server

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'The meaning of encryption' as it is a crucial aspect of security precautions alongside firewalls.

Which of these is a reason for using encryption?

• To create strong passwords

• To keep files safe

• To speed up computer performance

• To design a user interface

Answer explanation

Encryption is used to keep files safe by converting them into a secure format that can only be accessed with the correct decryption key.

Encryption is used in which of the following ways in digital communications?

• To enhance video quality

• To compress files

• To make information unreadable

• To increase download speeds

Answer explanation

Encryption is used in digital communications to make information unreadable, ensuring secure transmission and privacy.

Which of the following correctly describes a computer virus?

• A piece of malware that pretends to do something useful but has a hidden function.

• A piece of malware that can copy its malicious code into other pieces of software.

• A piece of malware that tries to spread over networks.

• A piece of hardware that stops computers from spreading germs.

Answer explanation

A piece of malware that can copy its malicious code into other pieces of software.

Which of the following correctly describes Trojan software?

• A piece of malware that pretends to do something useful but has a hidden function.

• A piece of malware that can copy its code into other pieces of software.

• A piece of malware that tries to spread over networks.

• A piece of software that can help to track horse races.

Answer explanation

The correct choice describes Trojan software as a piece of malware that pretends to do something useful but has a hidden function.

Which of the following correctly describes a computer worm?

• A piece of malware that pretends to do something useful but has a hidden function.

• A piece of malware that can copy its malicious code into other pieces of software.

• A piece of malware that tries to spread over networks.

• The end of a cable that is not needed for anything when you have upgraded a computer.

Answer explanation

A computer worm is a piece of malware that tries to spread over networks, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What is the meaning of hacking in relation to computer security?

• Unauthorised access to a computer system.

• Stealing computer parts to sell online later.

• Losing personal data stored in a computer.

• Setting up a fake website to gather personal details.

Answer explanation

Hacking in relation to computer security refers to unauthorized access to a computer system, making it the correct choice.