“Internet of Things without security is the Internet of Threats”
Stephane Nappo, CISO, OVHcloud
Cyber frauds are omnipresent today, with our processes and systems going virtual at a global scale. Isn’t that concerning that we are headed into a generation of web hackers that possess the capabilities of screwing the virtual systems of things? Facing a slump of cybersecurity experts, today’s business landscape is at the perils of massive web threats around the world.
Today, businesses are faced with cyber threats and challenges; topping the list, we have malware, ransomware, spam and phishing, distributed denial of service attacks, corporate account takeover attacks, and many others. These are topping the list and are risking the confidentiality of organizations the world over. This is why a cybersecurity specialist is in high demand.
The latest reveal from Cybersecurity Ventures Report showcases the cost of cybercrime to hit USD 8 trillion in 2023 and shall reach USD 10.5 trillion by 2025. As cyber interactions expand, this calls for an urgent intervention of tech experts flexing their cybersecurity specialist to provide secure cyberspace. Let us understand what exactly is the gravity behind the cybersecurity regime and how it even entails big moves for the times ahead.
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. These attacks usually aim at accessing, altering, or even destroying sensitive data; extorting money from users via ransomware; or interrupting normal business procedures. Cybersecurity clearly provides a shield to giant businesses and workspaces that are at a higher risk of being informationally destroyed and cheated on by cyber attackers.
Who are Cybersecurity Specialists?
Clearly, when cybersecurity is such a big deal, you got to hire expert IT professionals on point. A Cybersecurity Specialist is a seasoned professional that specializes in protecting electronic systems, and data from unauthorized access or theft. They are computer science or engineering professionals; utilizing their computing knowledge to design effective network space security solutions. Cyber experts have the right cybersecurity skills to keep hackers and unauthorized unethical information leakages at bay. They are held with numerous responsibilities that include:
- Collect information for threat evaluation
- Create regular system status records
- Trouble-shooting security and network problems
- Monitor for assault and run appropriate protective procedures
- Conduct vulnerability screening
- Set up network firewall programs, anti-virus systems, data facilities, and firewall software application updates
- Qualify licensed users
- Display access-related tasks
- Check for non-listed details adjustments
- Assist lead staff member training against phishing and other cyberattacks
Which industries are brimming with Cybersecurity job opportunities?
Cyber attackers are always on an endless stream of organizations and industries that can make a soft target. The established industries that are at an increasing risk of cyber threats include manufacturing, education, business services, transportation, infrastructure sectors, and financial sectors. The emerging sectors that are at a higher risk include eSports, artificial intelligence, and digital assets industries. Looking at the surging attack rates in the above-stated industries and attractive cyber targets; it clearly sets an open arena for expert cybersecurity specialists to work their magic for the greater good.
Top skills required to be a Cyber Expert:
- Fundamental technological skills such as network configuration and management, firewall installation, programming, and systems administration
- Programming and scripting languages such as Javascript competencies are a must-have
- Risk identification and management
- Data management and analysis
- Cloud implementation and management
- Logical reasoning and troubleshooting
- Automation implementation
- Adaptability
- Make recommendations
- Systems and processes update
- Practice effective communication
- Management access
- Attack surface management
- Application security and protection
8 Steps to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist:
- Gain a bachelor’s in Computer science, IT, or STEM field
- Earn a master’s level in the cyber protection arena
- Enroll with the top-ranking global cybersecurity certification providers
- Work on a diversified list of industry-related cybersecurity projects
- Build a network with the industry specialists
- Join conventions and online/in-person sessions
- Gain experience via projects
- Initiate with a humble cybersecurity job role
Ways to enhance your cybersecurity specialist skills:
- Build beyond the cybersecurity basics
- Get Certified with the trusted cybersecurity certification providers
- Stay ahead of the revolution
- Master interpersonal and time management skills
Conclusion:
Cybersecurity is not for the faint-hearted. It calls for specialized guidance and trained industry professionals who have served for decades in the industry. Learning the tricks of the trade from the experts allows you to amplify your cybersecurity specialist skills manifold. Today, you as a cybersecurity aspirant are at a gain stage; wherein globally renowned cybersecurity certification providers such as USCSI®, and many others are leveraging the best-in-line and futuristic set of skills that can go a long way in building a thriving career in cybersecurity for you. Deciding on the best credential provider can bring that extra push to your career trajectory. This is the time to harp on the best today as you plan your cyber career ahead!