Final answer:
The student's concern about a compromised computer network touches on the broader issues of online privacy and security in an era where increased internet use exposes individuals and organizations to heightened risks from hackers and nation-state actors. Studies have shown that higher cognitive demand can lead to more errors in security operations, emphasizing the need for effective cybersecurity measures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion that a computer network has been compromised refers to concerns related to online privacy, security, and control. As we embed our lives increasingly online, engaging in activities such as social networking, business transactions, and data storage, we expose ourselves to potential security risks. These risks are exemplified by incidents like the iCloud breach affecting celebrities, the Target data breach, and the pervasive threats posed by hackers and nation-state actors.
Hackers employ various methods to exploit network vulnerabilities, stage phishing attacks, and disseminate malware. Notably, increased cognitive demands can lead to more errors in detecting genuine security breaches, as researched in human factors psychology. Furthermore, high-profile cyber activities by other countries have been reported, involving data theft and attempts to interfere in democratic processes, illustrating the global implications of network security.
The increase of personal data available online and the high percentage of individuals troubled by privacy concerns highlight the importance of robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard against intrusions and protect sensitive information in our increasingly digitized world.