Computer Science

a deliberate attempt to damage, disrupt or gain unauthorised access to computer systems, networks or data

to check and clean user input to stop harmful code or to delete data to stop it being recovered or misused

the main software that manages a computer’s hardware and allows other programs to run

weaknesses in a system, software or network that can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorised access, cause damage or steal data

Defence against malware

This unit enables pupils to develop awareness of a range of cybersecurity threats that impact the world and us as individuals. They will explore different forms of attack, both non-automated and automated and how encryption tools can be used to protect communication.

Cyber threats and security

checking and cleaning user input to prevent harmful code

software that manages hardware and allows other programs to run

weaknesses in a system that attackers can exploit

a deliberate attempt to damage or gain unauthorised access to systems

Match the following terms with their definitions:

What is the process of protecting data by making it unreadable without the correct key?

What is the process of checking and cleaning user input to prevent harmful code?

Which of the following is an example of a strong password?

Antivirus software is helpful but must be combined with other security measures.

Antivirus software can prevent all types of cyberattacks.

Installing antivirus software is enough to fully protect a device from malware.

Antivirus software eliminates the need for strong passwords.

Which of the following statements about antivirus software is true?

It reduces the need for strong passwords.

It helps users recognise phishing attempts and suspicious activity.

It eliminates the risk of malware infections entirely.

It ensures antivirus software is always effective.

Why is user training important for improving cybersecurity?

spreads by attaching itself to files or programs

spreads automatically without user action

disguises itself as a harmless or useful program

locks files or systems and demands payment

Match the types of malware with their descriptions:

It asks for personal information or contains suspicious links.

Which of these is a key way to recognise a phishing email?

What is the type of malware that displays unwanted advertisements and may collect user data?

monitor user activity and steal sensitive information

the user downloads a file from a malicious website

the malware installs itself on the system

the malware begins to harm, steal or disrupt the system

the user experiences issues like data loss or system failure

Arrange the steps of a malware infection in the correct order:

What is the cybercrime that manipulates people into revealing confidential information by targeting human psychology?

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Defence against malware

Lesson outcome

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.