Tech with Leens

What are the differences? HTTPS is an encrypted and verified version of HTTP. HTTPS uses TLS (SSL) to encrypt HTTP requests and responses, ensuring data security and integrity. In contrast, HTTP transmits data in plaintext, making it vulnerable to interception. What is HTTP? HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is a protocol used for data transfer over networks, including the Internet. It facilitates communication between web browsers and servers through requests (initiated by users) and responses (sent by servers). HTTP Requests and Responses HTTP requests are generated when users interact with web content, while responses are server replies to these requests. Requests can be in the form of GET or POST methods, with the latter used for submitting sensitive data securely. HTTP Request Structure An HTTP request consists of plaintext lines following the HTTP protocol, including methods like GET, headers, and data. This plaintext nature poses security risks when sensitive information is tra...

SQL Injection (SQLi) is a critical web security vulnerability where attackers manipulate input to interfere with an application's database queries. This allows unauthorized access to sensitive data, alteration of database content, or even compromising the underlying server. Impact of a Successful SQL Injection Attack A successful SQLi attack can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, and personal user data. It has been involved in numerous high-profile data breaches, resulting in reputational damage, regulatory fines, and long-term compromises of organizational systems. Detection of SQL Injection Vulnerabilities SQL Injection vulnerabilities can be manually detected by testing each entry point in the application: Use characters like ' to detect errors or anomalies. Test SQL-specific syntax to compare responses. Employ Boolean conditions (e.g., OR 1=1) to identify differences in application responses. Use payloads triggering...

SSH (Secure SHell) Developed by SSH Communications Security Ltd., SSH is now the primary protocol for accessing network devices and servers over the internet. It allows users to log into remote computers, execute commands, and transfer files securely. SSH provides strong authentication and secure communication over insecure channels, using encryption to ensure data confidentiality. SSH runs on port 22 by default but can be changed, protecting against attacks like IP spoofing and DNS spoofing. It uses public key authentication, which is highly secure. Supported by major operating systems such as Unix, Solaris, Red-Hat Linux, CentOS, and Ubuntu. Offers secure login sessions, encrypted data transfer, and secure file movements. Common clients include built-in terminal for Mac OS X & Linux, PuTTY for Windows, JuiceSSH for Android, and Prompt for iOS. Telnet An older protocol launched alongside the internet in 1969, Telnet allows remote system communication and was crucial in early netwo...

  Password attacks , prevalent in both corporate and personal data breaches, occur when hackers attempt to steal user passwords. In 2020, compromised credentials were the cause of 81% of data breaches. Despite limited combinations of letters and numbers, poorly designed passwords make password attacks a persistent threat. Types of Password Attacks and Prevention: 1.Phishing: Description: Hackers pose as trustworthy entities, often via fraudulent emails, to trick users into revealing passwords or installing malicious code. Prevention: Verify email senders, double-check with the source, and consult your IT team. 2.Man-in-the-Middle Attack (MitM): Description: A hacker intercepts communication between two parties to steal information like passwords. Prevention: Use encrypted routers, strong credentials, two-factor authentication, and VPNs. 3.Brute Force Attack: Description: Hackers use automated scripts to try all possible password combinations. Prevention: Use complex passwords, remo...

 Definition and Function: File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a standard network protocol used for the transfer of files from one host to another over a TCP-based network, such as the Internet. It was originally developed to facilitate communication and information exchange between two physical devices. Nowadays, FTP is commonly used for cloud storage, which provides a secure, remote location for files. It enables businesses and individuals to transfer files between computer systems or allows websites to upload or download files from their servers. Usage and Benefits: FTP is a crucial tool for downloading, uploading, and transferring files over the internet. It supports both internet and cloud-based transfers, ensuring flexibility and accessibility. Some key benefits include: Website Management: FTP is essential for web developers and administrators who need to manage files on their servers. Free FTP Clients: Many FTP clients are available for free download, such as FileZilla, FTP Voya...

  Ransomware is a type of malware designed to block access to a computer system or encrypt its data, with attackers demanding a ransom to restore access. It can lock the computer or encrypt, steal, or delete data, sometimes threatening to leak stolen information. The typical process of a ransomware attack involves attackers gaining network access, activating the malware to encrypt data, and then demanding ransom, often in cryptocurrency, via an anonymous web page. Law enforcement advises against paying the ransom due to no guarantee of data recovery, continued infection, and the risk of future targeting. Preventative measures include maintaining recent offline backups, monitoring, and detection. Organizations should join information-sharing partnerships like the Cyber Security Information Sharing Partnership (CiSP) to mitigate ransomware impacts. Examples of ransomware include: WannaCry: Exploited a Windows vulnerability, affecting 230,000 computers globally in 2017 and causing $4 ...

  The Internet Protocol (IP) is a foundational technology that enables data communication across the Internet and other networks. It is a set of rules that dictate how data packets are addressed and routed so they can travel from a source to a destination. Data sent over the Internet is divided into smaller units called packets. Each packet carries information about its origin and destination in its IP header, allowing routers to direct it towards its final destination. IP Addressing and Routing Every device or domain connected to the Internet is assigned a unique IP address, which serves as an identifier, enabling data packets to be sent to the correct location. IP addresses are typically expressed in a numerical format such as 192.168.1.1. There are two primary versions of IP addresses: IPv4 and IPv6. IPv4 uses a 32-bit address space, allowing for approximately 4.3 billion unique addresses, but this space has become limited due to the rapid growth of the Internet. IPv6, introduc...

Phishing is a cyberattack where scammers use deceptive emails, texts, calls, or websites to trick individuals into divulging sensitive information or downloading malware. It exploits human error and manipulative tactics to bypass technological defenses. Phishing is a major cyber threat because it targets people, not just technology. It’s the most common cause of data breaches, costing organizations millions. Phishing attacks range from broad campaigns to highly targeted efforts, such as spear phishing and business email compromise (BEC), which can involve impersonating executives to steal funds or data. Types of phishing attacks include: Bulk email phishing:  Scammers send mass emails appearing to come from reputable sources to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information or downloading malware. Spear phishing: Targets specific individuals by gathering personal details to craft convincing fraudulent messages. Business email compromise (BEC): Targets businesses, often by...