Question

Difficulty: EasyData Security and Threats in Accounting Systems

Match each data security threat in accounting systems listed in Column A with its correct description or characteristic in Column B.

  • PhishingDeceptive emails or messages designed to trick accounting personnel into revealing sensitive login credentials.
  • RansomwareMalicious software that encrypts financial records and demands payment for the decryption key.
  • Unauthorized AccessEntry into an organization's accounting software by individuals without permission or appropriate rights.
  • Data CorruptionAlteration or loss of accounting data caused by hardware failure, malware, or improper system shutdown.

Answer

Phishing matches deceptive emails designed to trick staff into revealing credentials; Ransomware matches malicious software that encrypts financial records for ransom; Unauthorized Access matches unpermitted entry into accounting software; Data Corruption matches alteration or loss of accounting data due to system or hardware failures.
Each security threat is correctly matched to its core operating mechanism: Phishing uses fake messages to obtain credentials, Ransomware encrypts records for ransom, Unauthorized Access involves entry without permissions, and Data Corruption represents hardware/software failure causing file degradation.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the definition of Phishing in accounting IT security.
Phishing is social engineering using fraudulent emails to steal user credentials.
Match Phishing with deceptive messages attempting credential theft.
2
Identify the definition of Ransomware.
Ransomware holds files hostage by encrypting financial records until a ransom is paid.
Match Ransomware with malicious software demanding payment for decryption keys.
3
Define Unauthorized Access.
Unauthorized access is entry into accounting systems without proper approval.
Match Unauthorized Access with entry into software by unapproved personnel.
4
Define Data Corruption.
Data corruption refers to damaged or unreadable accounting files resulting from system errors, crashes, or malware.
Match Data Corruption with alteration or loss of accounting records.

Key Concept

Classification of IT threats in computerized accounting systems
Rate this question