Techkraft Inc

We live in a world of information. Our dependence on technology, business networks, and digital gadgets has grown well beyond what could have been imagined only a few decades ago. Individuals and their personal lives are stored in a variety of ways using online networks and secure servers. 

To secure such sensitive collections of information, the need for cybersecurity is considerably increased.  

 
What is cyber security? 

Cyber security means preventing unauthorized users or organizations from accessing or exploiting information held on devices, networks, and servers linked to the internet. A data breach might do enormous harm to the reputation of the company or organization that holds a sensitive set of information, as well as the exploitation of that information at the expense of innocent individuals who trusted these institutions with their personal information. 
 

Types of cybersecurity 

In addition, the numerous forms of cybersecurity are generally classified due to the variety of cyberattack types used to mess with protected and sensitive information. The following are some of the most frequent kinds. 
 

1. Network security:  
   It is the collection of settings and protocols that are imposed to regulate access to networks and the devices and systems that are linked to these networks through incoming and outgoing connections. The major goal is to ensure that the data stored on these networks are safe and unharmed. 
    

2. DLP (Data Loss Prevention): 
   It refers to the tools and methods that identify when sensitive information is transported, accessed, or stolen. It operates by the use of predefined data policies that are modifiable by the company that uses the service, and it operates by continually monitoring data. When it detects a malicious effort to steal or compromise data integrity, it implements remedial actions such as encryption to guarantee that the data is not misused. 
    

3. Cloud security: 
   Cloud computing is one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors, with more services and apps being launched now than ever before. These services rely nearly exclusively on cloud computing infrastructure to perform services and store data. The protection of this cloud infrastructure and data from unethical hackers or criminal persons is what is cloud security. 
    

4. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)/Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): 
   An intrusion detection system (IDS) or intrusion prevention system (IPS) works similarly by monitoring all incoming and outgoing connections to a specific server or network and is capable of swiftly recognizing any cybersecurity risks. IDS identifies the threat and relays it to the administrative team or cybersecurity professionals as predefined, whilst IPS include in-built protocols and cybersecurity tools not just to pinpoint irregular or potentially harmful activity but moreover bring an end to it. 
    

5. Identity and Access Management (IAM): 
   IAM is an umbrella term referring to a combination of policies, cybersecurity protocols, programs, and technologies used to carefully regulate access to sensitive databases and online platforms into which access must be prohibited to verified users only. It encompasses the development, management, and usage of digital identities, as well as the accompanying verification procedure, to guarantee that no unauthorized individuals obtain access to a restricted internet platform, network, or server. 
    

6. Data encryption: 
   The internet is the world’s most common method of communication right now, and data encryption acts its play. Encryption is the process of scrambling a message or communication in such a way that it is undecipherable by any unauthorized entity who has access to it. Just the sender and the desired receiver have accessibility to a decryption key, which is required to decipher the message or communication. The necessity for cybersecurity to protect the privacy of individuals and business organizations is growing all the time. 
    

7. Anti-virus/anti-malware: 
   Anti-virus or anti-malware is a computer program or software that is specifically designed to ensure that no malicious file or program, most commonly found on untrusted websites on the internet, can exploit the system’s cybersecurity vulnerabilities to cause disruption, irreparable damage, or data loss. These programs continually monitor a computer system’s activities, particularly when sensitive data is involved, transactions are done, or the internet is accessed, in order to safeguard the machine from any cybersecurity danger. 

Framework for cybersecurity 

A cybersecurity framework is an agreed-upon collection of guidelines and standards that a firm uses to secure itself and its data assets in the digital world. A framework becomes significant for a variety of reasons. Companies and enterprises in today’s info world rely heavily on data. As a result, this data is extremely important to the organization and must be safeguarded against illegal access or theft at all costs. 

This is where a well-planned and comprehensive cybersecurity framework comes into play to secure the organization’s critical infrastructure assets and maintain the security of the data kept by the company. 

Cyberattacks: Types 

The following are some of the most typical forms of cyber-attacks that cybersecurity experts must defend data and information from. 

1. Malware:
   Malware is an umbrella word for evil software and files that contain viruses that enter the system and cause information theft, damage of existent files and documents, destruction of particular elements of the system that make it useless, and so on. Malware is often downloaded onto a system whenever a user mistakenly clicks on a fake website or open an attachment, or downloads an unverified file or software. 
    

2. Spyware:
   Spyware is a sort of malware that requires specific care owing to its mode of operation. Spyware invades the system or device and is meant to go unnoticed while not interfering with the system’s functioning. Instead, spyware continuously monitors and analyzes the user’s activity on the system and feeds data back to a host, allowing sensitive information to be snatched. 
    

3. Ransomware:
   As the name implies, it is a criminal effort to extort information or money from the system user it affects. Ransomware is a type of malware that, when downloaded onto your system via fake websites, downloads, or files, entirely disrupts your system’s functioning and frequently displays a notification to the user requesting a certain amount of money be transmitted to the host in order to recover access to the system. 
    

4. Phishing: 
   These attacks are the most common type of cyber-attack in which communications get sent to users that appear to come from a trusted source but are in fact slyly designed to retrieve sensitive information such as login details, credit card details, and bank account details. 
    

5. Denial of Service (DoS) attacks:  
   A denial-of-service attack is often performed opposed to an online platform or website, flooding its systems and servers with traffic and requests. This information overflow puts a burden on the platform’s bandwidth and resources, eventually preventing anybody from accessing or using the website. The major goal of such assaults is to make the specific service supplied by the internet unavailable to people who require it.  
    

6. Zero-day exploits:  
   New cybersecurity vulnerabilities are frequently identified by users, who may then resort to the internet to notify other users about the same. In certain circumstances, an individual may take advantage of the situation and launch a cyber-attack to exploit the newly discovered flaw before the makers of the program or application can provide a remedy for the weakness. 
    

7. Man-in-the-Middle (MITM): 
   These attacks occur when a hacker infiltrates a communication channel between two systems or between a user and an application that is thought to be safe or secret. The major purpose of such an attack is to steal sensitive information in the background by intercepting secure connections, namely payment data, bank and card information, login credentials, and so on. These assaults may be avoided by using continually changing cybersecurity communication protocols that are meant to improve safeguard private conversations.

A Comprehensive Guide to Cybersecurity Awareness 

At home, outdoors, or at the office, we are constantly under threat of cyber-attacks. Security awareness is essential to avoid the loss of valuable data and damage or destruction of devices.  

Undoubtedly, the Internet makes our lives easier but threats of spam, identity theft, invasion of privacy, and cyber espionage are also rampant online.  

Our phones, laptops, organizational networks, and online profiles are all susceptible to such threats.  

Minimizing these risks requires a comprehensive understanding of the threats around you and how you can avoid them.

Most Common Cyber Threats: 

Viruses 

A virus is a type of malware that attaches itself to a legitimate program or file, and then replicates itself when that program or file is executed.  

Viruses can cause a wide range of problems, including system crashes and data loss. They can also be used to spread other types of malwares, like spyware or ransomware.  

They can also cause problems like slow performance, increased network traffic, and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Phishing 

Phishing is a type of social engineering attack often used to steal user data, including login credentials and credit card numbers.  

It occurs when an attacker, masquerading as a trusted source, gets a victim into opening an email, instant message, or attachments.  

They use social engineering to trick their target into falling for the scam by offering incentives like limited time offers, a business opportunity, and so on, creating a sense of urgency.  

The most common form of phishing is via emails that attempt to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information, clicking a malicious link, or downloading a virus-laden attachment.  

Other forms of phishing could also be an imitation website that collects your personal information or a bogus phone call attempting to steal your network credentials.  

Ransomware 

Ransomware is a security threat that encrypts files in a user’s computer and then asks for a ransom to unencrypt them.  

This attack is typically paired with phishing emails, that usually ask users to click on links or attachments that are designed to download a type of malicious software on a user’s computer, which can then lock up their files and display a message demanding payment for release.  

Ransomware has been around since 1989, but it wasn’t until 2009 when bitcoin entered the scene and gave hackers an anonymous way to collect money that it gained popularity.  

Public Wi-Fi Interception 

With coffee shops, hotels, shopping malls, airports, and many other locations offering their customers free access to public Wi-Fi, it’s a convenient way to check your emails, catch up on social networking or surf the web when you’re out and about.  

However, cybercriminals will often spy on public Wi-Fi networks and intercept data that is transferred across the link.  

In this way, the criminal can access users’ banking credentials, account passwords and other valuable information. 

Risks of Removable Media 

Removable media like USB flash drives are useful in accessing personal or business data on the go. 

However, the more their usage the more risks are associated with them.  

Hackers can search for possible ways to install malware that are more difficult to detect.  

Using these devices will increase the risk of data loss, and data exposure, and there is an increased chance of network-based attacks. 

Each time that a removable media device is used, there is a possibility that a computer may become infected.  

Removable media can be easily lost, resulting in the compromise of sensitive information stored in it.  

Autorun can also be problematic when hackers abuse this feature by setting malicious programs to run automatically on removable media.  

Physical Threats 

Sometimes, in our quest to lock down our networks and avoid malware and viruses, it’s easy to forget about the physical world around us that can pose security threats.  

Physical security flaws can put your personal information and the organizations’ sensitive data at risk just as much as a cyber-attack. 

It is common to assume that a data breach only comes from something like malware, ransomware, or phishing email.  

However, to a hacker, it really doesn’t matter how they get your info.  For that reason, we should be aware of potential security risks in physical aspects such as tailgating and shoulder surfing.  

Ways to Avoid Them: 

Safe Web Browsing 

Here are a few simple tips to help you stay safe while browsing the web: 

• Use a secure web browser. Major web browsers like Chrome and Firefox regularly release automatic updates to fix vulnerabilities. By keeping your browser and any associated plugins or extensions up to date, you can ensure that your device has the most recent security version, preventing hackers from attacking it.  
• Be cautious when clicking on links. Especially if you receive them in an email or message from someone you don’t know.  
• Disable cookies and tracking settings in your browser. 
• Be mindful of the personal information you share online. 
• Use a VPN that will encrypt your internet connection and helps to protect your data from being seen by others on the same network. 
• Use websites that start with “https” rather than “http.” This indicates that the website is using secure, encrypted connections, which can help to protect your information. 

Avoid Public Wi-Fi.  

Public Wi-Fi networks might not be secure, which means that any information you send over the network could potentially be intercepted by others if it’s a compromised network.  

Here are some recommended tips of keeping your system secure on public Wi-Fi:  

• Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as online banking or shopping, while using public Wi-Fi. 
• Always turn off automatic connections. 
• Enable 2 factor authentication – this way, even if a hacker obtains your username and password, they still won’t be able to access your accounts. 
• Always remember to “forget network” after using public Wi-Fi. 
• Don’t run financial transactions over public networks. 
• Use your smartphone hotpots, which are a safe alternative. 

Use a Strong Password 

Passwords provide essential protection against unauthorized access to your computer and personal information. The stronger your password, the more protected your computer will be from hackers and malicious software. You should maintain strong passwords for all accounts on your computer. 

Here are some tips to create secure passwords that are more resistant to attacks from hackers: 

• Use a unique password for every account.  
• Use a password manager to help generate and store unique, complex passwords for each of your accounts. 
• Avoid obvious passwords like your birthday, social security number, or other sensitive information.   
• Limit the number of personal details you share on social media sites. This might make it easier for someone to guess your password or security questions.   
• Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. A little creativity also helps!   
• Use multi-factor authentication. 

Removable Device Security  

The best protection against any attack on removable media is to insert only trusted removable media into your computer. However, there are other preventive measures as well including the following: 

• Install anti-malware/anti-virus software on your computer – this will actively scan for any viruses or malware when a removable media or device is connected 

• Disable the auto-run and Autoplay features – these features will automatically be triggered when plugged into a USB port   
• Implement access controls to protect the data on removable media by password protecting your removable media or device 
• Implement physical security if necessary to prevent removable media from being used 
• Remove sensitive data from removable media or device once you have finished transferring the data 
• Make sure that all removable media and devices are encrypted – FileVault can be used for MacOS and BitLocker for Windows 

Regularly Backup Data 

Maintaining back up of data regularly in an isolated network prevents valuable data from being lost or destroyed. It is the most effective countermeasure against ransomware and other forms of destructive cyberattacks.  

Information Security Tips for Remote Work 

• Do not share work data and information with the home computer or personal devices. There is a risk that personal computers and mobile devices might not have the latest security updates for operating systems and browsers. 
• Make sure your device has the latest applications, operating systems, network tools, and internal software installed. Have the IT/support team install malware protection and anti-spam software on laptops and computers. 
• Create new and strong passwords for your laptop, corporate mobile device, and email. 
• Use only approved cloud applications for sharing and storing data. 
• Avoid storing or printing paper documents with sensitive information at home. 
• Check legitimacy of links and attachments in emails, text messages, and social media chats. 

We should continually seek and adopt best practices in security awareness to avoid falling victim to hackers. By understanding cyber threats and following appropriate security tips, we can be safe from the many threats in cyberspace. 

At TechKraft, ensuring top-notch quality isn’t just a goal; it’s a fundamental principle ingrained in our engineering culture. We follow a meticulous process, akin to crafting a culinary masterpiece, to “bake in” quality throughout every stage of our solution development. 

By following these meticulous steps, we don’t just deliver solutions; we serve quality, reliability, and innovation on a platter. It’s our commitment to bake in quality that distinguishes TechKraft’s solutions in the digital landscape. 

Nepal has changed a great deal since the covid-19 pandemic toppled existing economic systems in 2019. Several people lost their jobs and livelihoods, others rushed to adopt virtual means to resume work. Only essential workers that serve in hospitals, banks, media outlets, food and medicine suppliers, grocery shops, and waste management retained their physical workplaces, under lockdown measures to mitigate the viral threat.  

A phase of rapid adoption of technology swept the nation as virtual meetings, cashless transactions, and e-commerce multiplied their user base overnight. In this period of persistent health concerns, the ‘work from home’ model, much untested at the time, presented its viability. This revelation backed by fascinating global research on the effectiveness of remote work has been key to a futuristic workspace, companies are vying to unlock. 

What does the data say about remote work? 

These key statistics from post-pandemic research present the change in outlook on the ‘work from home’ model: 

• 44% of workers globally, are able to work remotely during the COVID-19 crisis, this number is estimated to be only 17% for lower-middle-income countries like Nepal, creating more incentive to make remote work more available.  
• 41% of respondents say working from home is more productive, while 28% say it is equally productive. 
• 16% of teleworkers consider working from home more engaging, 19% say it is more satisfying, and 11% say they are less likely to quit their jobs than onsite staff. 
• 30% of British employees felt that they spend more hours on their work when they are home, owing to greater flexibility. 

Global leaders have discovered the utility of hybrid work models that combine the physical and virtual. 

A futuristic proof of concept can be seen, currently in the pipeline, when Mark Zuckerberg introduced the Metaverse on Oct 29 of 2021. In the video, we can see Zuckerberg engaging in a meeting with colleagues in a virtual reality office space that is highly interactive and accessible through a home console. The keen investment towards VR and AR technology that blurs the lines between the physical and virtual is a trend expanding across industries.  

Acceleration of AI and Automation 

The jobs of tomorrow are also accelerating towards human and machine hybrid models. A 2021 report by McKinsey & Company highlights that 1 in 16 workers, which amounts to 100 million workers globally must find a different occupation by the year 2030 due to the post-covid scenario. The International Labour Organization (ILO) made a much starker projection, where 195 million workers faced job displacement in 2020. 

As the Covid-19 virus continues to mutate and present new threats with each variant, experts warn. This has fueled the rush towards automation of menial jobs. Companies are accelerating the deployment of automation and AI-powered industries, warehouses, and shops to limit human contact and meet market demands.  

The World Economic Forum stated in a recent report that by the year 2025, 97 million new roles may emerge that blend humans, machines, and algorithms. There is already rising demand in the fields of data science, machine learning, and robotics engineers alongside programming and cybersecurity. 

Where Nepal stands in the Global Marketplace of Innovation 

Nepal shows considerable promise to become a global leader in outsourcing. Nepalese tech professionals are building a strong rapport for quality software development, data science, and engineering skills across the globe. Nepal as a global hub of software outsourcing and innovation is steadily gaining recognition on the world stage.  

You can tune in to our podcast for exclusive industry insights from top IT professionals in Nepal. Explore the scale, scope, and magnitude of work they are performing, in and out of the nation, and discover Nepal’s prospects on providing software solutions to worldwide businesses.  

Furthermore, the pandemic has enhanced investor confidence in remote teams, incentivized through the availability of reliable data and the low cost of remote FTEs. Nepal, in particular, is greatly favorable for building a startup with low cost and high employee lifecycles. An increasing number of IT companies are also bridging the skill gap through Bootcamps and certifications, training developers in Nepal to meet global competitive standards. Nepal is a burgeoning tech scene, full of talent, opportunity, and potential to become the next global tech hub in the near future.