Safe Computing - AP Computer Science Principles

To block unauthorized access to or from a private network. Acts as a barrier between trusted internal and untrusted external networks.

Includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Complexity makes passwords harder to crack through brute force attacks.

Ransomware. Encrypts victim's files and demands payment for the decryption key.

An isolated environment to run untested code safely. Isolated execution prevents malicious code from affecting the main system.

Data Backup. Creates copies to restore data after corruption, deletion, or attacks.

To block unauthorized access to or from a private network. Acts as a barrier between trusted internal and untrusted external networks.

Malware. Software designed to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to systems.

Hacking. Gaining access to systems without permission to steal or damage data.

To detect, prevent, and remove malware. Software that protects computers by identifying and eliminating malicious programs.

Includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Complexity makes passwords harder to crack through brute force attacks.

HTTPS. HTTP Secure encrypts data between browser and server using SSL/TLS.

Spam. Unwanted email sent in bulk, often for advertising or malicious purposes.

A method to steal sensitive information through deceptive emails. Fraudsters impersonate trusted entities to trick users into revealing data.

Encryption. Converts readable data into coded format to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching. Updates fix security holes that could be exploited by attackers.

A trial-and-error method to decode encrypted data. Systematically tries all possible combinations to crack passwords or keys.

Encryption. Converts data into unreadable format to prevent eavesdropping attacks.

To enhance security by requiring multiple verification steps. Combines something you know, have, and are for stronger authentication.

DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service). Multiple compromised computers flood target with traffic to cause outages.

To differentiate between human and automated access. Prevents automated bots from accessing systems meant for humans only.

Firewall. Controls network traffic flow based on predetermined security rules.

Manipulating individuals to divulge confidential information. Psychological manipulation exploits human trust rather than technical vulnerabilities.

A software flaw unknown to the vendor. No patch exists yet, making systems vulnerable until fix is released.

To assess the effectiveness of security measures. Systematic review identifies weaknesses and ensures compliance with policies.

Access Control. Determines who can access what resources based on authentication and authorization.

A security process requiring two separate authentication methods. Combines password with second factor like SMS or authenticator app.

To establish guidelines for protecting information assets. Formal document outlines security procedures and responsibilities for organizations.

An electronic document used to prove identity. Cryptographically signed document verifies identity and public key ownership.

Botnet. Compromised computers controlled remotely to perform coordinated attacks.