Where does the term “hacker” come from?

The term “hacker” originated in the 1960s at MIT, but it had a positive connotation . Originally, hacker was used to describe skilled computer whizzes. Over time, it evolved to include those who exploit systems or distribute malware. Nowadays, hackers are categorized into “white-hat” (ethical hackers), “black-hat” (malicious hackers), and “grey-hat” (those who fall between), reflecting the complexity of their roles in cybersecurity.

How do threats keep up with modern cybersecurity tools?

Modern cybersecurity tools like antiviruses keep up with complex modern threats by implementing a combination of traditional signature-based malware detection with heuristic analysis. Recently, AI-powered detection models have become a vital component of many antiviruses (and some viruses too). Governments also frequently pass bills and policies to improve national cybersecurity defenses. For example, the US created agencies like CISA to protect the federal government from hackers. At the same time, private companies are encouraged to constantly release security updates for their products to thwart hackers.

How have threats changed since the early days of cybersecurity?

Early cybersecurity threats were often simple experiments or pranks, such as the Creeper virus in the 1970s. But it didn’t take long for malicious actors to start using their talents and knowledge of vulnerabilities to cause real harm, either for personal gain or just to create havoc. Nowadays, cybersecurity deals with a far wider range of threats. These include viruses that destroy data, websites designed to steal personal information, and even broad-based attacks that can cripple public infrastructure.

How can you protect yourself from modern threats?

The easiest way to protect yourself from threats is by installing a quality antivirus. Products like Norton and Bitdefender come with advanced malware scanners, a secure firewall for network protection, a VPN for data encryption, and a lot more. Without a good antivirus, it’s almost impossible to protect yourself from every nasty strain of malware on the internet.

Artikelen door Tyler Cross

Tyler Cross

Tyler is een schrijver bij SafetyDetectives met een passie voor onderzoek naar alles wat met technologie en cybersecurity te maken heeft. Voordat hij zich bij het team van SafetyDetectives aansloot, werkte hij meer dan vijf jaar praktijkgericht met allerlei producten omtrent cybersecurity, waaronder wachtwoordmanagers, antivirussen en VPN's, en leerde hij alles over hun gebruiksmogelijkheden en werking. Wanneer hij niet werkt als "SafetyDetective", bestudeert hij graag geschiedenis, onderzoekt hij investeringsmogelijkheden, schrijft hij romans en speelt hij Dungeons and Dragons met vrienden."