A Career in Cyber-Security
Cyber-security is the application of technologies, processes and controls to protect systems, networks, programs, devices and data from cyber attacks. It includes data protection strategies like encryption, access control, and verification. Cyber security also entails protecting against threats to the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information.
Our world increasingly relies on technology for communication (email, social media), transportation (cars, bikes and drones), shopping (internet banking and credit cards), medical treatment, energy management and more. While these technologies bring enormous benefits, they also create new risks. Hackers and other bad actors are increasingly targeting these technologies for financial gain or to cause disruption. For example, a 2017 breach of a credit reporting company compromised personal information for 147 million people.
A career in cybersecurity offers exciting opportunities for people with the right skills. The demand for qualified professionals is growing rapidly, especially in fields like risk assessment and incident response. People with the right mix of technical, analytical and interpersonal skills can become highly valued in this field.
To reduce the likelihood of a cyberattack, organisations should implement an effective risk management strategy that includes regular vulnerability testing and a compliance audit regime. They should also educate staff about cyber threats and best practices. For example, they should encourage the use of strong passwords, avoid opening suspicious attachments and back up important files regularly. Finally, they should invest in technologies that detect and respond to cyberattacks quickly. This includes implementing zero trust security, which verifies all incoming traffic to the network and only allows trusted sources to access it.