2.1. Why Computer Security Is Important

It's almost impossible not to recognize the importance of computer security in today's economic and political climate. The national news media devotes ample coverage to computer security issues, often sensationalizing the latest computer virus or so-called hacker attack. In fact, that very sensationalism can distract you from day-to-day security threats. Computer security encompasses a wide range of potential threats and basic concepts, and you can never underestimate the real business costs of security failures. Consider the following:

• Most companies store proprietary information regarding their products or services both online and in hardcopy documents. If competitors obtain a company's product specifications and plans, they may be able to drive it out of business.

• Companies have a legal obligation to protect the sensitive employee information they collect for payroll and other purposes. If the security of that information is compromised, the company may be subject to lawsuits and legal fines.

• Some companies, such as banks, are subject to laws regarding the security of the information they use. For example, if a bank's customer records are accessed by unauthorized personnel, the bank can be subject to hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines, not to mention lawsuits by their customers.