What are computer security and privacy? Are they related? And what are the key differences between each?
Let’s find out!
What is Computer Security?
In simple terms, computer security means protecting computer systems. It also protects data from harm, theft, and unauthorized use.
Additionally, it has three properties:
- Confidentiality – the limiting of data access to official parties only
- Integrity – the legitimacy of data
- Availability – the convenience of having the data or system when you want it
Besides, security connects with reliability. You can rely on a system if it meets the following categories:
- Keeps your data confidential
- Only allows authorized parties to access or modify
- Provides correct results
What is Computer Privacy?
On the other hand, what is computer privacy? Let’s consider the context of computer information.
Privacy is being free from intrusion. It also means that you get to control your data.
In this context, the word control means the following:
- the parties who can see it
- the authorized access
- the use of data
What are the differences between computer security and privacy?
To help us understand their differences, let’s consider an example.
A VPN or a virtual private network is a security product for your data. It is like a tunnel for your internet activities and information.
Moreover, it secures your data by encryption. Here’s how VPN relates to your computer security and privacy:
- Security: It protects you from malicious attackers. These attackers will try to access your personal information.
- Privacy: It blocks websites and browsers. It also blocks cable companies and ISP. Why? So these cannot track your information and history of browsing.
Why should you protect your computer security and privacy?
Needless to say, there are so many attackers online. Terrorists, cybercriminals, and many more are threats to us.
Here’s an example of a data breach. When you open a bank account, you might share personal information. What could happen?
The bank will use your information. It is vital to give you products and services.
In some cases, banks will sell that information to marketers. And you may have agreed to this! It is included in the bank’s terms and agreement.
Thus, your personal information is now accessed by other parties, too.
In worst cases, this could be a way for a security breach. Criminals will attack a bank’s database. Then, your information is exposed. Additionally, criminals will try to sell that to the dark web.
Hence, your privacy is gone. You do not feel secure.
How can you protect your computer security and privacy?
It is vital to value your security and privacy. So take measures to protect your computer and data. Also, strive to boost your security, too.
Here are some things you can do:
- Think before you click. Limit what you share online.
- Shred documents before throwing in the trash.
- Secure your Social Security. If possible, do not disclose them online.
- Use antivirus software.
- Use a secure router.
- Setup a VPN when using public Wi-Fi.
- Educate yourself about privacy policies before signing up for a service.
- Do not skip the terms and conditions.
