This module will introduce students to the cybersecurity principles and core fundamentals for an increased security posture in today's rapidly changing threat landscape.

Students completing this module will be exposed to theoretical and practical aspects of cybersecurity, including risk management and the significant legal implications of insecure systems in our increasingly digital world.

The module emphasises developing a keen awareness of the far-reaching consequences of cybersecurity actions on individuals, organisations, and society at large. Students will get to understand how vulnerabilities can be exploited and how robust security measures can mitigate these pervasive risks. Hands-on exercises and case studies will provide practical experience in identifying, assessing, and responding to cyber threats.

The goal is to develop not only technically proficient but also ethically responsible professionals, who are aware of the consequences of their actions on individuals, organisations, and society at large, thereby preparing them to be conscientious and ethical leaders in the cybersecurity field.

• Security Audit
• Formal Examination

• Blackboard
• Unconfirmed practical marks when available
• Exam Papers, past 2 years (where applicable)

This module aims to enable students to:

• Develop an understanding of cyber security principles and practices.
• Identify and analyse the risks posed by potential security threats to computer systems.
• Understand the societal impact of insecure systems and approaches to securing them.
• Identify, evaluate and respond to security incidents.

• Explain key cybersecurity concepts and principles, demonstrating their practical application and societal impact.
• Critically evaluate current security practices and apply appropriate countermeasures to secure systems against evolving threats.
• Assess the security posture of existing software systems and implement secure development practices to engineer robust and resilient new systems.
• Investigate and respond to security incidents, accurately identifying technical causes and assessing their immediate impact on systems and data.

This module teaches cyber security topics such as:

• Threats, Attacks and Vulnerabilities
• Cybersecurity Principles
• Risk Management
• Malware
• Threat Modelling
• Administrative and technical control measures
• Incident response and management 

Only available to students on COMT19 MSc in Computer Science.

This module is only open to students who have taken Programming, Algorithms and Data Structures (COM415) in the previous semester. 

Students will be given formative feedback during the lectures and labs. Written feedback will also be provided on the assignment submitted in the semester.