Practice Tests
IELTS Reading (AC) Task 1 #139

A. Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks, theft, and damage. In our increasingly interconnected world, where vast amounts of sensitive information are stored and transmitted online, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures has become paramount. These digital threats come from a variety of sources, including individual hackers, organised crime groups, and even state-sponsored actors, and their motivations can range from financial gain to espionage and disruption.

B. The scope of cybersecurity is broad, encompassing multiple layers of protection. Network security focuses on securing computer networks from intruders, while application security aims to protect software and devices from threats. Information security is concerned with protecting the integrity and privacy of data, both in storage and in transit. A comprehensive cybersecurity strategy involves a combination of technologies, processes, and controls designed to defend against a constantly evolving landscape of threats.

C. Common cybersecurity threats include malware, such as viruses and ransomware, which can disrupt operations and extort money; phishing, which uses deceptive emails and websites to steal personal information like passwords and credit card numbers; and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, which aim to make a machine or network resource unavailable to its intended users by overwhelming it with traffic. The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) has created billions of new connected devices, many with poor security, creating new vulnerabilities for attackers to exploit.

D. Effective cybersecurity is not just a technical issue; it also relies heavily on human behaviour. Many successful cyberattacks are the result of human error, such as clicking on a malicious link or using a weak password. Therefore, a critical component of any cybersecurity strategy is user education and awareness training. As our reliance on digital infrastructure grows, cybersecurity is no longer just the responsibility of IT professionals but a shared responsibility for everyone, essential for protecting our economies, critical infrastructure, and personal privacy.