Cybersecurity Careers And Professions
Cybersecurity is a fast-growing field of IT concerned with reducing the risk of an organization experiencing hacking or a data breach. In an annual survey by Enterprise Strategy Group with IT professionals in organizations across the globe, 45 percent of organizations said that they had a "problematic shortage" of cybersecurity skills in 2016, up from 42 percent in 2015 (Oltsik, 2019). Commercial, governmental, and nongovernmental organizations employ cybersecurity professionals. The fastest increases in demand for cybersecurity workers are in industries managing increasing volumes of consumer data such as finance, health care, and retail. However, the use of the term cybersecurity is more prevalent in government job descriptions.
Research the government agencies listed for cybersecurity focus. What is the intent of the agencies and core of their mission? How successful have they been in supporting cybersecurity? Is this intention woven into their mission statement and vision?
Familiarize yourself with the varieties and subtle differences in cybersecurity professions and describe your impressions. Are there new titles? More current? What are the differences and similarities (if any)? What skills, talents, or characteristics are needed to succeed in the professions you are examining?
Review information for cyber analysts and other titles in related areas. Which positions appeal to you? Why? Do you have experience in this field? What did you find interesting? What skills, certifications, or experience are needed to succeed in that position?
Security Consultant/Specialist/Intelligence
Protects computers, networks, software, data, or information systems against viruses, worms, spyware, malware, intrusion detection, unauthorized access, denial-of-service attacks, and an ever increasing list of attacks by hackers acting as individuals or as part of organized crime or foreign governments. These broad titles encompass any one or all of the other roles or titles tasked with cybersecurity.
Sample Solution
he mission of security consultants, specialists and intelligence professionals is to ensure that an organization’s information systems are kept safe from unauthorized access, viruses, worms and other malicious software by deploying strategies for defending against cyber-attacks. They are responsible for assessing the security level of a system and making recommendations on how to
urther secure it. This may involve using tools such as firewalls, antivirus programs and intrusion detection systems. Security consultants also assist in designing processes and procedures to protect against future attack attempts when new vulnerabilities are identified or new technologies implemented.
To be successful in this field one must possess specialized knowledge of computer networks, operating systems and software applications; have strong problem solving skills; have excellent communication skills; be highly organized; be proactive in finding solutions; stay up-to-date with industry news related to cybersecurity threats; possesses technical certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), CompTIA Security+ or GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC);and have experience working with a variety of privacy standards such as HIPAA, FERPA or PCI DSS compliance regulations.
Security Consultants/Specialists/Intelligence personnel need to be able to understand their clients' needs thoroughly before recommending any solutions so they should develop strong interpersonal relationships with those within the organization. They should also possess a sense of urgency when addressing potential security issues because waiting can lead to more serious problems down the road which could cost their client greatly both financially and reputationally. As technology advances rapidly every day these professionals need stay ahead of emerging threats by continuing their education through seminars, webinars and conferences held by leading organizations such as (ISC)2 or ISACA – International Information Systems Audit & Control Association
In addition, many organizations require individuals involved in cybersecurity roles hold special government clearances due to the sensitive nature of the data being handled by these individuals thus requiring great attention detail when filling out background forms or interviews conducted during clearance investigations procedure.
Overall Cybersecurity Professionals play an important role in preventing malicious attacks that threaten business operations while protecting vital company data from criminals who wish use it illicitly therefore remaining vigilant when identifying risks is paramount for success within this field .