Cybersecurity and Memory Management

Introduction to Cybersecurity

• Focus: Cybersecurity issues related to personal computers (PCs), not necessarily connected to the internet.
• Future Discussions: Will cover internet-related cybersecurity challenges.

Understanding System Memory

Types of System Memory

• RAM (Random Access Memory)
  • Measurement: Up to 32 GB for high-end machines; typical range is 4-16 GB.
  • Usage: Stores data temporarily for processing.
• Hard Drive Space
  • Measurement: Ranges from 128 GB (solid state drives) to 4 TB.
  • Usage: Long-term storage for files and applications.
• Caches
  • L1, L2, L3 caches: Serve as intermediary storage between RAM and CPU, getting progressively smaller and faster.
  • CPU memory and registers: Fastest but smallest in quantity, located closest to the CPU.

Hierarchy of Memory

• RAM: Key for processing; must move data to and from RAM to manipulate data.
• Caches: L3, L2, L1, and CPU memory enable faster data retrieval to CPU.
• Hard Drives: Non-volatile storage, requiring no power to maintain data.

Memory Addressing

• 32-bit Systems: Can process memory addresses up to 4 billion.
• 64-bit Systems: Handle much larger memory addresses, theoretically up to quintillions, allowing for large quantities of RAM.

Memory Representation

• Binary and Hexadecimal Notations
  • Easier to refer to memory addresses using hexadecimal to save space and simplify representation.
  • Hexadecimal conversion: Groups of 4-binary digits converted to a single hexadecimal digit.
  • Example: Translating binary to hexadecimal and decimal for understanding.
• Memory Addresses: Organized by bit count (32-bit, 64-bit) to determine how much data can be processed.
• Practical Example: Use of tools like GDB for debugging and memory management.

Hardware Overview

• Motherboard Components
  • RAM Slots: For plugging in RAM sticks.
  • CPU: Central Processing Unit, controls processing tasks.
  • Floppy Drive Connectors: Legacy component.
  • SATA Connectors: For connecting hard drives to the motherboard.
  • GPU: For specialized graphic processing.

Volatility and Data Persistence

• Volatile Memory (RAM): Requires constant power; data lost when power is off.
• Non-volatile Memory (HDD): Maintains data without power; uses magnetic storage.

Security Concerns and Best Practices

Data Deletion and Recovery

• Deleting Files:
  • Files aren't truly deleted; system forgets the address but data remains until overwritten.
  • Tools and techniques for data recovery involve reading raw memory sectors for previously stored data.
• Secure Deletion
  • Physical destruction or tools like degaussers.
  • Overwriting data multiple times for secure deletion due to residual magnetic traces.

Protective Measures

• Encrypt Hard Drives: Using OS-inbuilt tools for better security.
• Use Secure Networks: Avoid unsecured networks; consider VPN for secure connections.
• Password Management: Use strong, unique passwords and consider password managers.
• Backup Data: Regularly back up data to avoid loss due to hardware failure or cyber-attacks.
• Implement Compliance Protocols: Establish and follow data management and security policies.

Ethical Considerations for Lawyers

• ABA Opinion 477R (2017): Emphasizes technical competence and firm compliance protocols.
• ABA Opinion 483 (2018): Obligation to inform clients of data breaches; importance of data retention policies.

Conclusion

• Understanding memory management and cybersecurity basics is crucial for protecting data.
• Implement best practices to comply with ethical guidelines and secure client information.