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Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors

Greg Williams

Data breaches occur nearly every day. From very large retailers, down to your fantasy football website, and anywhere in between, they have been compromised in some way. How did the attackers get in? What did they do with the data they compromised? What should I be concerned with in my own business or my systems? This course is the second course in the Practical Computer Security. It will discuss types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today’s environment. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but threats are all over the place! This course isn’t designed to insight fear that there is no hope for keeping systems and business secure, but rather educate you on how attacks are carried out so that you have a better sense of what to look out for in your business or with your systems.

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What's inside

Syllabus

THREATS AND ATTACK VECTORS IN COMPUTER SECURITY
Welcome! This week we'll explore users and user based attacks. User based attacks are common because it may be easier to compromise a human rather than a computer.
Read more
Network and system based attacks
Threats against networks and systems are the most common type of attack method. This week will explore these concepts.
Cloud Security
You use the cloud every day; you may not even realize it! This week will focus on the cloud and security surrounding cloud and cloud services.
Common Vulnerabilities
The week will focus on common vulnerabilities that systems face and how they work.
Data Breaches
Data breaches occur daily. Sometimes they are announced right away, other times they are found out months after the compromise. This week will focus on the course project.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for beginners, this course builds on the foundational knowledge of network security and threats encountered in the first course in the series
Taught by Greg Williams, an expert in cybersecurity, who brings industry knowledge and experience to the course
Provides a comprehensive overview of common vulnerabilities and attack vectors encountered in computer security
Emphasizes practical application through real-world examples and case studies
Course project focuses on data breaches, providing hands-on experience in analyzing and responding to security incidents
Suitable for IT professionals, security analysts, and anyone interested in understanding and mitigating cybersecurity threats

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Reviews summary

Cyber threats and attack vectors: comprehensive knowledge

Students say this is a largely positive course that is a great fit for cybersecurity beginners. Students say the course explains foundational topics well and provides informative theoretical knowledge. Students also mention that the instructor is highly rated for being informative and engaging. While some students hoped for more practical sessions, the course assignments and lessons seem to fulfill the learning objectives. Overall, this course is highly recommended for anyone interested in building a foundation in cyber threats and attack vectors.
The instructor, Greg Williams, is highly rated for his engaging and clear presentations.
"Greg's explanation is lucid and he incorporates all his IT, CS experience in this course."
"I have learned lots abouts cyber threats through this course and this is a great chance improve our careera.Thank you so much and this is a professional course."
"Mr. Williams is an excellent teacher, I feel that what I learned from him is irreplaceable going forward, great certification! Thanks Mr. Williams! "
Instructors provide clear explanations of cyber threats and attack vectors.
"The information disseminated thorough out this course is unbelievably necessary."
"I learned alot from this course. but peers review is something should not be there."
"The course is very good and very complete, the teacher is excellent with good support material as an example and quite well explained"
This course is a solid starting point for students who are new to cybersecurity.
"For biggners to enhance their knowledge in cyber security."
"Especially for beginners in cybersecurity"
"This course is amazing and very interesting topic too."
Some students expressed a desire for the course to include more practical lessons or hands on activities.
"Learned a lot new things, But expected more practical sessions."
"I want to learn how people do these kind of crime I mean cyber crime so I eagar to learn this course"
"style of delivery is very average and reading through the slides."
Students have mixed opinions about the peer review process, with some students expressing positive experiences while others express negative experiences.
"Thank you very much for your help. I'm much grateful for what you've done for me"
"I really enjoyed the peer-to-peer work assignment"
"unfrtunaly have to wait the peer's review and grading to pass the course and get the certificate"
"one of the peer gave me all 0 without any reason however other two gave me 100 and 80 with sensible reason."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors with these activities:
Form a Study Group with Classmates
Collaborate with classmates to reinforce learning, clarify concepts, and prepare for assessments.
Show steps
  • Identify classmates with similar learning goals and interests.
  • Establish regular meeting times and create a study schedule.
Review Fundamentals of Cyber Security
Review and reinforce foundational concepts like network security and cryptography to prepare for this intermediate level course.
Show steps
  • Review basic security concepts such as CIA triad and security controls
  • Refresh knowledge of network topologies, protocols, and common attacks
  • Revisit concepts of encryption, hashing, and digital signatures
Review Network Security Fundamentals
Strengthen your understanding of core network security principles to enhance your comprehension of the course materials.
Browse courses on network security
Show steps
  • Review the OSI model and common network protocols.
  • Understand basic firewall and intrusion detection system concepts.
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Attend a Local Cybersecurity Meetup
Connect with professionals in the field to broaden your network and stay up-to-date on industry trends.
Browse courses on Cybersecurity Community
Show steps
  • Find a local cybersecurity meetup group.
  • Attend a meeting and introduce yourself to other attendees.
Practice SQL Injection Prevention Techniques
Sharpen your skills in preventing SQL injection attacks through targeted practice exercises.
Browse courses on SQL Injection
Show steps
  • Review common SQL injection techniques.
  • Complete a series of SQL injection prevention exercises.
Explore Cloud Security Frameworks
Expand knowledge of industry-recognized cloud security frameworks to enhance understanding of cloud security principles.
Browse courses on Cloud Security
Show steps
  • Review frameworks such as NIST CSF, ISO 27001/27017, and CIS Benchmarks
  • Understand the key components and controls of each framework
  • Identify how these frameworks apply to real-world cloud environments
Review 'Hacking: The Art of Exploitation'
Covers the fundamentals of hacking and guides you through hands-on demonstrations, providing a comprehensive understanding of the tools and techniques used by real-world attackers.
View Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the first three chapters to understand the basics of hacking, including reconnaissance and vulnerability scanning.
  • Set up a lab environment to practice the techniques described in the book.
  • Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter to reinforce your understanding.
Practice Scanning and Vulnerability Assessment
Enhance hands-on skills by practicing network scanning and vulnerability assessment techniques.
Browse courses on Vulnerability Scanning
Show steps
  • Use tools like Nmap, Nessus, or OpenVAS to perform network scans
  • Identify and analyze vulnerabilities using scanning reports
  • Practice patching and mitigating vulnerabilities
Participate in Security Discussion Forums
Engage with peers to exchange knowledge, discuss current security trends, and seek support in understanding course concepts.
Show steps
  • Identify relevant discussion forums or online communities
  • Actively participate in discussions, sharing insights and asking questions
Follow the 'Secure Coding' Tutorial Series
Enhance your understanding of secure coding principles and best practices through guided tutorials.
Browse courses on Secure Coding Practices
Show steps
  • Complete the 'Secure Coding Fundamentals' tutorial.
  • Practice implementing secure coding techniques in your own code.
Develop a Threat Modeling Diagram
Apply concepts learned to create a visual representation of potential security threats and their impact.
Browse courses on Threat Modeling
Show steps
  • Select a specific system or application to model
  • Identify and analyze potential threats and vulnerabilities
  • Create a diagram using industry-standard notations
  • Document the threat model and its implications
Develop a Threat Modeling Plan
Apply your knowledge of threat modeling to create a tailored plan for your own application.
Browse courses on Threat Modeling
Show steps
  • Identify the assets and vulnerabilities of your application.
  • Analyze potential threats and their impact.
  • Develop mitigation strategies for identified threats.
  • Document your threat modeling plan.

Career center

Learners who complete Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analysts investigate and resolve cybersecurity incidents. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be very helpful for a Cybersecurity Analyst as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst
Penetration Tester
Penetration Testers evaluate the security of computer networks and systems by simulating attacks. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be very helpful for a Penetration Tester as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineers design, implement, and manage security measures to protect an organization's computer networks. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be very helpful for a Network Security Engineer as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts are responsible for protecting an organization's computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be extremely helpful for an Information Security Analyst as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst
Security Engineer
Security Engineers design, implement, and manage security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be very helpful for a Security Engineer as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Engineer
Computer Forensic Analyst
Computer Forensic Analysts investigate and analyze computer systems to identify evidence of crimes or other misconduct. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for a Computer Forensic Analyst as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Forensic Analyst
Security Consultant
Security Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on how to improve their cybersecurity posture. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for a Security Consultant as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Consultant
Incident Responder
Incident Responders investigate and respond to cybersecurity incidents. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for an Incident Responder as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Incident Responder
Malware Analyst
Malware Analysts investigate and analyze malware to identify its behavior and develop countermeasures. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for a Malware Analyst as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Malware Analyst
Cloud Security Architect
Cloud Security Architects design and implement security measures to protect an organization's cloud-based systems and data. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for a Cloud Security Architect as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's cloud environment. The course covers topics such as cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Security Architect
IT Auditor
IT Auditors evaluate the effectiveness of an organization's cybersecurity controls. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for an IT Auditor as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators manage and maintain computer systems and networks. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for a Systems Administrator as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator
Network Administrator
Network Administrators manage and maintain computer networks. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for a Network Administrator as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator
Database Administrator
Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for a Database Administrator as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Security Manager
Security Managers oversee the security of an organization's computer networks and systems. This course on Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors would be helpful for a Security Manager as it provides a deep dive into the types of threats and attack vectors commonly seen in today's environment. The course covers topics such as user-based attacks, network and system-based attacks, cloud security, common vulnerabilities, and data breaches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Manager

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors.
Cover image
Computer Security: Principles and Practice PDF...
Save
Provides a comprehensive foundation in cryptography and network security, explaining the underlying principles and practical applications of these technologies.
Computer Security: Principles and Practice PDF...
Paperback
Check
Computer Security: Principles and Practice PDF...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Security Engineering
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of security engineering principles and practices, focusing on building secure and dependable distributed systems.
Security Engineering: A Guide to Building...
Hardcover
$$
Personal Medical Information: Security, Engineering...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Security Engineering: A Guide to Building...
Paperback
$$$
Security Engineering, 2ed
Paperback
$$
Security Engineering and Tobias on Locks Two-Book...
Hardcover
$$$$
Security Engineering: A Guide to Building (text...
Unknown Binding
$$$$
Cover image
Malware
Save
Provides an in-depth exploration of malware analysis, including techniques for detecting, preventing, and recovering from malware attacks.
Malware: Fighting Malicious Code
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Cloud Security and Privacy
Save
Focuses specifically on cloud security, covering best practices, security architectures, and risk management strategies for cloud-based systems.
Cloud Security and Privacy: An Enterprise...
Paperback
$$
Cloud Security and Privacy: An Enterprise...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Network Security
Save
Explores the concepts and protocols involved in network security, covering topics such as firewalls, intrusion detection, and virtual private networks (VPNs).
Network Security: Private Communication in a Public...
Hardcover
$$$
Network Security: Private Communications in a...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Digital Forensics, Investigation, and Response
Save
Focuses on digital forensics and incident response, providing a comprehensive overview of the field and best practices for investigating and responding to cybercrimes.
Digital Forensics, Investigation, and Response
Paperback
$$$
Digital Forensics, Investigation, and Response
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Security in Computing
Save
Provides a fundamental understanding and background in cybersecurity with a focus on concepts and practices to protect computer networks, systems, and data.
Security in Computing
Paperback
$$$$
Security in Computing
Mass Market Paperback
$$
Security in Computing, 4th Edition
Hardcover
$$
Security in Computing
Hardcover
$$
Security in Computing
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
The Art of Invisibility
Save
Offers insights into the human factors involved in cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of understanding social engineering techniques and defending against them.
The Art of Invisibility: The World's Most Famous...
Paperback
$$
The Art of Invisibility: The World's Most Famous...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado System
Instructor
Greg Williams
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a collection called Cybersecurity for Business. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Introduction to Cybersecurity for Business
  2. Proactive Computer Security
  3. Detecting and Mitigating Cyber Threats and Attacks
  4. Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors (viewing)
Good to know
Suitable for beginners, this course builds on the foundational knowledge of network security and threats encountered in the first course in the series
Taught by Greg Williams, an expert in cybersecurity, who brings industry knowledge and experience to the course
Provides a comprehensive overview of common vulnerabilities and attack vectors encountered in computer security
Emphasizes practical application through real-world examples and case studies
Course project focuses on data breaches, providing hands-on experience in analyzing and responding to security incidents
Suitable for IT professionals, security analysts, and anyone interested in understanding and mitigating cybersecurity threats
Share and help others discover this course.
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