What is unauthorized access? Explanation of damage details, causes, and countermeasures

Refers to the illegal intrusion of malicious software into computers and smartphones.Unauthorized access. What kind of damage does unauthorized access cause? In this article, we will discuss essential points when talking about cybersecurity.We will explain the overview, causes, and countermeasures of unauthorized access..

What is unauthorized access?

Unauthorized access refers to acts of unauthorized access to a device or acts that facilitate unauthorized access.

for example

• Infiltrate a computer by exploiting vulnerabilities in its OS, applications, or hardware
• Using another person's password to impersonate others on various services.
• Providing your computer password to a third party

It refers to such actions.

``I use the wireless LAN installed at home without looking at the instructions,'' and ``When I use a public LAN connection, I connect without paying particular attention to security settings.'' Some people may have a clue.

Depending on the wireless LAN and computer settings,Other users using the same access point may be able to access your personal device. Using a wireless LAN in an environment without information security measures increases the risk of unauthorized access.

The longer you spend on the Internet, the more likely you are to become a victim. To use the Internet safely and comfortably,Take proactive measures against unauthorized accessIt's important to know.

First, let's take a look at the damage that can occur if unauthorized access occurs in the next chapter.

Damage caused by unauthorized access

The damage caused by unauthorized access varies depending on the attacker's purpose. The most frequently reported symptoms are as follows.

• Unauthorized remittance through internet banking
•  Unauthorized purchases on the Internet
•  Unauthorized manipulation of online games and community sites
•  Eavesdropping on information such as eavesdropping on emails
•  Unauthorized manipulation of internet auctions
•  Sending information by pretending to be an acquaintance
•  Website defacement

In addition, data stored on the server may be sent to an external party, the server's system may be destroyed, or data may be transmitted to other computers.Being used as a springboard for attacks, creating loopholes (backdoors) in security systems,Cases of damage such as this have been reported.

In this way, unauthorized access can cause great damage by using users' personal information and information held by organizations. Also, due to unauthorized access,This could cause significant damage not only to money but also to reputation.There is also.

Causes and countermeasures for unauthorized access

So, what measures should we take to prevent damage from unauthorized access?Unauthorized access exploits vulnerabilities hidden in computer hardware and applications.I touched on this a little in the previous chapter. In this chapter, we will once again introduce the causes of unauthorized access in detail.

In environments where multiple devices share the Internet, such as wireless LAN, other users may be able to access your personal device. If security settings are not configured, unauthorized access will spread to the connected computers.

Therefore,When installing a wireless LAN, be sure to check the access restriction settings.. Please refer to the instruction manual of your wireless LAN device for instructions on how to set the security status.

If the OS (operating system), security software, and various applications installed on your computer are out of date, there is a possibility that the system could be compromised by unauthorized access and allow intrusion.If you are an organization, follow your organization's policies, consider the impact on the systems you manage, and take action..

By implementing firewalls and intrusion prevention systems, you can limit unauthorized access to information sources.

If you use a security system, it cannot be said that it is absolutely safe.. However, if it is not utilized, it is vulnerable to many cyber attacks including unauthorized access, so make sure to utilize it as much as possible.

As you use your computer, you may find yourself adding more apps and software to your computer without realizing it, or you may end up with services and software on a shared network that you don't use. If you leave services that you don't use often, your system may become vulnerable and may be accessed by unauthorized persons. Therefore, as much as possibleOrganize your software environment within your control by deleting or uninstalling unused services and software.Let's try.

Many of you probably use mobile devices that surround your computer. Not only computers, but also routers, wired LANs, etc.,It is important to take security measures for devices connected to computers.is.

We recommend that you check each setting by referring to the instruction manual and IPA notes.

A major example of damage caused by unauthorized access is spoofing in Internet banking and online shopping. The reason why damage caused by identity theft is so easy to spread is that users reuse passwords.

If you use the same password for multiple services, the damage can easily spread all at once, so please separate them as much as possible. In addition, you can do other things as well.Measures to protect your password include: ``Do not leave it on your computer,'' ``Do not share it with others,'' and ``Do not leave it on paper.''Let's keep these things in mind.

Make sure to back up your data on a daily basis

How was it? Unauthorized access that can cause significant damage to individuals and organizations. Understand the cause and take preventive measures. Additionally, if the unauthorized access progresses to a serious level, you may be forced to initialize your computer. Initializing the computer will erase any data saved on the computer, soIt is a good idea to back up items that are highly important or frequently used..

[Reference site]
・Damage caused by unauthorized access and countermeasures│Ministry of Internal Affairs and CommunicationsHP
・Tampering with homepages and files│Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications HP
・I just want to do this! “Three promises of wireless LAN information security” | Government Information Online
・Act on Prohibition of Unauthorized Access | e-Gov