Test: Computer Security - 1 - SSC CGL MCQ

A computer virus is a small software program that spreads between computers, disrupting normal operations. It can corrupt or delete data, slow down system performance, display annoying messages, or even take control of a computer system. Computer viruses are designed to replicate and spread, causing harm to the infected computer and potentially to other connected systems. It's crucial for users to be cautious with downloads and email attachments to mitigate the risks associated with these malicious programs.

Downloadable programs, such as executable files like games and screensavers, are major sources of viruses. It's essential for users to exercise caution when downloading programs from the internet and to always scan files for potential threats before installation. This practice helps prevent the introduction of harmful software that can compromise the security and functionality of computer systems.

System access control plays a vital role in computer security by ensuring that unauthorized users are unable to access the system. By implementing security measures that authenticate and authorize users, organizations can prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data and resources. This helps protect against potential security breaches and safeguards the integrity and confidentiality of information stored on computer systems.

Data access control is implemented to control who can access data on a computer system and for what specific purposes. By setting security levels and permissions, organizations can manage and monitor data access, ensuring that only authorized individuals can view or manipulate sensitive information. This helps prevent unauthorized data breaches and protects the confidentiality and integrity of valuable data assets.

Booting from unknown CDs poses a security risk to computer systems as it can introduce viruses and malware that may compromise system integrity and functionality. By booting from unfamiliar or untrusted CDs, users expose their systems to the risk of malicious software installation, which can lead to data loss, system instability, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. It's essential to avoid booting from unknown CDs to minimize the potential security threats associated with this practice.

Confidentiality in computer security primarily ensures that data is accessed only by authorized persons. This is a fundamental aspect of protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access and maintaining privacy and security in digital systems.

Steganography serves the purpose of hiding the existence of messages to aid confidentiality and integrity in communication. By concealing the presence of messages within other data, steganography helps in ensuring that information remains confidential and secure from unauthorized access.

Plain Text is the term used to denote the original message before it undergoes encryption in cryptography. It represents the unencrypted, readable form of the information that is to be transformed into cipher text for secure communication.

Non-repudiation in computer security aims to prevent senders from denying that they sent a message. This concept ensures accountability and trust in digital communication by making it impossible for the sender to later refute their actions or disown the transmitted information.

Access control in computer security primarily functions to restrict users to resources they are authorized to access. By managing and governing user permissions, access control plays a crucial role in maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data within digital systems.

Viruses are programs that can negatively affect computers by performing destructive actions, replicating, and spreading. The first computer virus was "Creeper" in 1971, marking a significant milestone in the history of malware. Viruses can monitor activities, slow performance, destroy data, affect networks, and display error messages, among other detrimental effects.

Worms are standalone programs designed to replicate and spread via networks. Examples of worms include Bagle, I Love You, Morris, Nimda. Worms typically have the capability to spread on a larger scale compared to other types of malware, making them significant threats to network security.

Trojans are malicious programs that appear beneficial but, in reality, facilitate unauthorized access to systems. Unlike viruses and worms which replicate or spread, Trojans rely on social engineering to deceive users into executing them. This deceptive nature makes Trojans a common tool for cybercriminals seeking unauthorized access to systems.

Missing files are a common symptom of a malware attack. Malware can delete or corrupt files on a system, leading to data loss or system instability. Monitoring for missing files can be a crucial step in detecting and mitigating the impact of a malware infection.

Spyware is designed to monitor user activities and collect information covertly. This information can be misused for various purposes, including identity theft, financial fraud, or espionage. Spyware operates stealthily, often without the user's knowledge, making it a significant privacy and security concern in the digital age.