What are some risks, threats, and vulnerabilities commonly found in the Workstation Domain that must be mitigated through a layered security strategy? 2. File-sharing utilities and client-to-client communication applications can provide the capability to share files with other users (for instance, peer-to-peer networking or sharing). What risks and/or vulnerabilities are introduced with these applications? 3. Explain how confidentiality can be achieved in the Workstation Domain with security controls and security countermeasures. 4. Explain how data integrity can be achieved in the Workstation Domain with security controls and security countermeasures. 5. 5.Explain how availability can be achieved in the Workstation Domain with security controls and security countermeasures.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
- Risks, Threats, and Vulnerabilities in the Workstation Domain:
- Risks: Malware, ransomware, unauthorized access, data loss, data breaches, insider threats.
- Threats: Cyberattacks such as phishing, malware, zero-day exploits, and social engineering attacks can target workstations. Users are also at risk from weak passwords or not applying necessary security patches.
- Vulnerabilities: Unpatched software, outdated operating systems, improper access controls, weak passwords, and lack of endpoint protection can create vulnerabilities that are exploitable.
- Risks of File-Sharing Utilities and Client-to-Client Communication Applications: File-sharing utilities (e.g., peer-to-peer networking) introduce several risks, such as:
- Malware Distribution: Files shared through these systems can contain malware that may spread throughout the network.
- Data Breaches: Sensitive information can be inadvertently shared or accessed by unauthorized individuals.
- Legal Issues: Unauthorized sharing of copyrighted content can lead to legal implications.
- Lack of Encryption: Without proper encryption, data shared between peers can be intercepted by malicious actors.
- Confidentiality in the Workstation Domain: Confidentiality ensures that sensitive data is accessible only to authorized individuals. In the workstation domain, this can be achieved through:
- Encryption: Encrypting data both at rest and in transit to prevent unauthorized access.
- Access Control: Implementing strict access controls and the principle of least privilege (only giving users the access necessary for their tasks).
- Multi-factor Authentication (MFA): Requires additional verification to prevent unauthorized access.
- Data Integrity in the Workstation Domain: Data integrity ensures that data remains accurate, consistent, and unaltered during its lifecycle. This can be achieved by:
- Hashing: Using cryptographic hash functions to verify the integrity of data.
- Digital Signatures: Applying digital signatures to verify the source and authenticity of data.
- Backups: Regular backups help recover data in case of corruption or loss.
- Availability in the Workstation Domain: Availability ensures that data and services are accessible when needed. To achieve this:
- Redundancy: Implementing backup systems and power supplies (e.g., uninterruptible power supplies) to prevent downtime.
- Disaster Recovery Planning: Ensuring robust disaster recovery plans are in place, including regular data backups.
- Network Monitoring: Monitoring workstations and network activity to quickly identify and mitigate issues that could affect availability.
By implementing these security measures, workstations can be better protected against a variety of risks, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data.