Data storage and transmission risks

Information is power — but consider what happens if that power falls into the wrong hands. Data stored in systems, as well as data en route during transmission, is exposed to a number of risks: vital information may be stolen or modified, whether to pursue some selfish motive or simply for fun or adventure. Two major threats and their remedies are:

• Virus: the acronym VIRUS stands for 'Vital Information Under Siege'. A virus is a program (a series of commands) that replicates itself on other computer systems. Its effects range across levels:

  • Level-1 — mere annoyance, such as an on-screen display,
  • Level-2 — disruption of functioning,
  • Level-3 — damage to target data files,
  • Level-4 — complete destruction of the system.

  Installing and timely updating of anti-virus programmes, and scanning files and disks with them, protects data files, folders and systems from virus attacks. …