COM6013 - Cyber Security

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of current regulations, standards and procedures related to cyber security;
Demonstrate an understanding of social engineering and human security;
Demonstrate an understanding of network security and cryptography fundamentals;
Critically evaluate cyber security threats, vulnerabilities and risk assessment for a range of cyber systems;
Design solutions that balance system usability against effective security.

Content:

Cyber security covers the main elements of computer security: confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It explores the legal frameworks, and the systems processes and controls that are designed to protect systems, networks and data from cyber-attacks. The module explores some common threats (e.g. phishing, malware, ransomware and identity theft), as well as the technologies, systems and networks typically affected. It also looks at the human behaviours (e.g. hacker motivation and user convenience) that render systems vulnerable. Students explore the impact this has on individuals and businesses and examine the reaction responses and preventative countermeasures deployed within current information security culture: including risk assessment methods, standards, policies, procedures and their role in a successful information security strategic planning. Students will practically examine circumventing protection mechanisms through techniques such as penetration testing and offensive/hacking; appraise the role of security testing of their software products; and reflect on the limits of anti-malware software such as antivirus programs.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The content of this module is delivered through short tutor presentations followed by activity-based learning. Workshop sessions provide the opportunity for students to work through a range of security management case studies, using a range of technologies and techniques.

Workshops
Hours: 36
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Seminars
Hours: 24
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours:240

Further details relating to assessment
Case Study: This case study comprises an evaluative survey of the security systems and processes for a system or company and proposes a security management strategy.

Written Exam: The exam will consist of a multiple choice section (40%) and a long question section (60%) in which students answer 3/5 essay type questions. The multiple choice questions should cover a broad range of cyber-security topics. An example of a long question might ask that a student offers guidance to a company in the light of a specific company report.

Assessment:

001 Case Study; 3,000 words; mid semester 2 50%
002 Written exam; 3 hours; end of semester 2 50%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Aliyu Lawal Aliyu
Level - 6
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 6S2

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