Introductory description

This module introduces students to several key aspects of cyber security as well as spreading awareness of the current cyber security landscape and threat actors.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

This module covers both technical and non-technical aspects of cyber security.
After a brief introduction to the field of cyber security, students should learn more about the below topics.

• Penetration testing using Kali Linux
• Web application testing
• Fuzzing
• Social engineering attacks
• Open Source Intelligence techniques
• Program security
• Threat modelling
• Governance, risk management, compliance
• Risk assessment
• Contingency planning

Note that all labs can be performed on the DCS machines where several Virtual Machines (VMs) have been installed for this purpose.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Test the security of a computer network.
• Test the security of a web application.
• Design a secure program by avoiding common programming mistakes that lead to unsecure applications.
• Use OSINT techniques to geolocate an image.
• Identify and assess the risks associated to an application, a computing system, or a company.
• Be aware of common standards and regulations to help senior management make strategic decisions.

Indicative reading list

Non-compulsory reading list:

1- Cybersecurity – Attack and Defense Strategies: Improve your security posture to mitigate risks and prevent attackers from infiltrating your system, 3rd Edition, by Diogenes and Ozkaya, Packt Publishing, 2022
2- The web application hacker handbook, 2nd edition, by Stuttard and Pinto, Wiley, 2011
3- Management of Information Security, Sixth Edition, M. Whitman, H. Mattord, 2018
4- Secrets and Lies: Digital Security in a Networked World, Bruce Schneier, 2004

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

See syllabus

Transferable skills

Technical skills;
Communication skills;
Critical thinking;
Multitasking;