Question 1

What is the difference between a virus and a worm?

Accepted Answer

A virus is a type of malware that attaches itself to a legitimate program or file and requires human action (like opening an infected email attachment) to spread. A worm, on the other hand, can spread automatically across networks without any human interaction, often exploiting security vulnerabilities. Both can cause damage, but worms are generally more dangerous because they can replicate rapidly.

Question 2

How do I create a strong password that I can remember?

Accepted Answer

A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Instead of using a single word, try a passphrase like 'MyDog!Loves2Run' which is easy to remember but hard to crack. Avoid using personal information like your name or birthdate, and never reuse passwords across different accounts.

Question 3

What should I do if I think I've been phished?

Accepted Answer

If you suspect you've fallen for a phishing attack, act quickly. Change your passwords immediately for any accounts that may be compromised. Contact your bank or credit card company if you've shared financial details. Run a full antivirus scan on your device. Report the phishing attempt to the organisation being impersonated and to Action Fraud (the UK's national fraud reporting centre).

Question 4

Why is it important to keep software updated?

Accepted Answer

Software updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. If you don't update, your device remains open to known attacks. For example, the WannaCry ransomware in 2017 spread because many computers hadn't installed a critical Windows update. Keeping software updated is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself.

Question 5

What is two-factor authentication and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring not just a password but also a second factor, like a code sent to your phone or a fingerprint. Even if someone steals your password, they can't access your account without the second factor. Yes, you should enable 2FA on all accounts that offer it, especially email, banking, and social media.

Question 6

How does the UK Data Protection Act 2018 affect me?

Accepted Answer

The UK Data Protection Act 2018 gives you rights over your personal data, such as the right to know how your data is being used, the right to access it, and the right to have it deleted (the 'right to be forgotten'). It also requires organisations to protect your data and report breaches. As a student, this means your school must handle your information responsibly, and you have the power to request copies of your data or ask for corrections.

AIM Qualifications Level 1 Award in Computing and Information Security

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