Class 12 Computer Science — Chapter 12: Security Aspects

Understanding the fundamental concept of network security, which involves protecting devices and data from unauthorized access or misuse. This includes recognizing vulnerabilities and the need for preventative measures in a connected world.

Defining Malware (Malicious Software) as software intentionally designed to damage devices, steal data, or cause harm. Students should know that it encompasses various types like viruses, worms, and Trojans.

Understanding what a computer virus is, how it attaches itself to a host program (executable file), and that it requires human action to spread. Students should be able to differentiate it from other malware.

Learning the key characteristics of a worm, specifically that it is a standalone program that can replicate itself and spread across networks without needing a host file or human interaction.

Defining ransomware as a type of malware that blocks access to a user's data or threatens to publish it, demanding a ransom payment for its release, often through encryption. The WannaCry attack is a key example.

Understanding that a Trojan horse is malware disguised as legitimate software. It tricks the user into installation and then can create backdoors for malicious access, but it does not self-replicate.

Differentiating between spyware, which secretly gathers user information without consent, and adware, which automatically displays advertisements to generate revenue. Both can compromise privacy and system performance.

Defining keyloggers as hardware or software that record keystrokes to steal sensitive information like passwords. Students should understand the countermeasure of using an online virtual keyboard with a randomized layout.

Identifying the common channels through which malware spreads, including internet downloads, spam email attachments, infected removable storage devices, and automatic network propagation.

Recognizing common signs of a malware infection (e.g., pop-ups, slow performance, unknown programs) and understanding basic preventive measures such as using and updating antivirus software and configuring browser security.