Reference no: EM133621300 , Length: word count:1300

Introduction to Cyber Security - Cyber Ethics Evaluation

Your Task

For this individual assessment, you will undertake a task that requires you to write a comprehensive report. The report should have a word count of 1300 words and should revolve around the provided scenario and situation. Your main objective is to effectively address the questions provided below, ensuring that you establish clear connections to the concepts covered in class and the learning outcomes of LO3 and LO4. These learning outcomes require you to recommend risk mitigation strategies to address cyber security vulnerabilities and threats (LO3) and to analyse privacy, legal, ethical, and security issues and propose solutions related to the IT infrastructure and use of technologies in organisations (LO4). Your report and evaluation should demonstrate a deep understanding of these concepts and showcase your ability to apply them in practical scenarios.

Learning outcome 1: Recommend risk mitigation strategies to address cyber security vulnerabilities and threats.
Learning outcome 2: Analyse privacy, legal, ethical and security issues and solutions related to the IT infrastructure and use of technologies in organisations

Assessment Description

Situation:

Mark, a cybersecurity analyst at DCS Inc., plays a vital role in safeguarding the company's information assets. During routine security assessments, he uncovers a significant vulnerability in the network infrastructure that poses a risk to sensitive customer data and valuable intellectual property. Addressing this vulnerability becomes a top priority.

Ethical Dilemma:

Mark finds himself in a challenging situation where he must make critical decisions regarding the vulnerability at hand. On one hand, he is tasked with recommending risk mitigation strategies that effectively address the cybersecurity vulnerabilities and threats associated with the identified vulnerability. This requires him to carefully assess the potential impact on data security, identify suitable controls, and propose measures to prevent data breaches. It is crucial for Mark's recommendations to align with industry best practices and consider the unique IT infrastructure and technologies employed by the organisation.

Furthermore, Mark must thoroughly analyse the privacy, legal, ethical, and security implications linked to the vulnerability. This entails evaluating the impact on data privacy, understanding the legal and regulatory frameworks governing data protection, and considering the ethical considerations involved in handling sensitive customer information. Mark's proposed solutions must not only rectify the vulnerability but also ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations, safeguard individual privacy rights, and uphold ethical standards.

Additionally, Mark needs to assess the broader ramifications on the organisation's IT infrastructure and technology usage. This involves identifying potential disruptions to business operations, evaluating the financial consequences, and devising strategies to mitigate associated risks. Mark must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness between cybersecurity, privacy, legal, ethical, and security matters. By offering holistic solutions that encompass these factors, Mark can contribute to the organisation's cybersecurity resilience, protect customer data, and promote responsible and secure technology utilisation.

By navigating the ethical dilemma skilfully and providing well-reasoned recommendations, Mark plays a vital role in fortifying the organisation's defences against cybersecurity threats. Through careful analysis and consideration of privacy, legal, ethical, and security aspects, Mark ensures that the organisation can effectively combat the complexities of the cyber landscape while maintaining the highest standards of privacy, integrity, and ethical conduct.

Assessment Instructions

Read the situation and scenario on the previous page.
Answer and address the six (6) questions listed below.
Include at least 6 (six) references in your report.
Refer to the assessment marking guide to assist you in completing all the assessment criteria.
Submit your report to MyKBS (Moodle Assignment) once you have completed your report.

Your report must include the following questions:

Question 1: What risks and consequences could result from the identified network infrastructure vulnerability? How might these impact data security and overall operations?

Question 2: What strategies would you recommend to mitigate the vulnerability and prevent data breaches?

Question 3: What ethical considerations arise when deciding whether to disclose the vulnerability? Factors such as stakeholder impact, legal obligations, and reputation should be considered.

Question 4: Analyse the role of transparency, responsible disclosure, and informed consent in handling cybersecurity vulnerabilities. How can these principles be applied to foster communication and collaboration?

Question 5: Analyse the relevant legal and regulatory requirements for the vulnerability. Identify privacy, legal, and security issues, and propose steps for ensuring compliance.

Question 6: Examine the potential impact of the identified vulnerability on the organisation's reputation and public perception. How can effective communication and reputation management strategies mitigate reputational damage and maintain stakeholder trust in the face of cybersecurity incidents?