Cybersecurity: Why It’s Time to Invest in a Secure and Rewarding Career
Marie has recently deposited a large amount of money in the bank. Sometimes later, she got an email that introduced her to some offers that her bank card now offers, for they require her to fill in their ID and password for the bank account, as this doesn’t look fishy and fake. Without giving her a minute to ponder, she provided her bank account details.
Later in the evening, she received an email saying that she had transferred a large chunk of money to someone. Afterwards, she discussed this with her friend, a cyber-security expert, and through this, she came to know that she had been the victim of a cyber attack.
She was then introduced to how cybersecurity helps prevent and mitigate cyberattacks.
Cyber security:
Implementing digital technologies, measures, and controls to protect systems, networks, programs, devices, and data from cyberattacks
The basic aim behind this is to reduce the risk of cyberattacks and protect against the unauthorized exploitation of systems, networks, and technologies.
The world is shifting towards the virtual horizon, so much so after the COVID-19 pandemic, and the concept of working virtually came into play. There has been a gradual increase in virtual cyber attacks, and it hasn’t brought any relief to any country worldwide.
Governments and organizations are worried about what it takes to prevent such data breaches. However, the world is evolving at its own pace with the power of technology, which is intertwined with daily life so much that it can’t fan out.
This made it possible for governments, organizations, and institutions to look out for skilled cybersecurity professionals who can control this whirlwind of cyberattacks and crimes, which is accelerating day by day. They have the potential to detect, prevent, and reverse these menacing cyberattacks.
Harward Extension School reported that according to one analysis, approximately 30,000 websites are hacked every day, and every 39 seconds, a new attack happens somewhere on the web.
With a growing rise in cyber-attacks, more interest is piqued in individuals to take up the career path of cyber-security, and in a similar way, companies are also in need of cyber-security professionals.
Choosing a career in cyber-security is not that easy, as, like any other field, it has some prerequisites set for individuals to adhere to:
* A BS degree in the Field of cybersecurity or a related field
* Taking up Certified courses in cyber-security, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and others
Check out some of the best-certified courses in cyber-security, shared by Coursera.
Some prerequisite skills:
Being equipped with networking skills, an understanding of operating systems, and cloud security.
Jobs in cyber-security vary from entry-level positions to executive managerial positions. Individuals can also start their career in cyber security with entry-level jobs and then move forward by taking up certifications.
Job Roles in the Field of Cyber-security
Networking Engineer
This job allows you to set up and administer the organization’s computer network. This job also includes installing, configuring, and supporting the network equipment. Moreover, arranging and maintaining firewalls, switches, and routers
It’s an entry-level job that can progress the individual towards becoming an ethical hacker.
Information Security Analyst
The prime duty of this job includes safeguarding the sensitive details of the organization, employees, and users. This job allows you to implement plans needed to prevent cyber attacks and monitor data access while also ensuring adherence to policies.
Ethical Hackers
They are also called penetration testers or network security consultants. This job allows you to identify loopholes and exploit system vulnerabilities. Moreover, it also includes investigating and testing the networks with the help of various penetration tools. Often, the design of the penetration tools while also documenting the test results falls under ethical hackers’ duty.
Chief Information Security Officer
This is the senior-level officer position in an organization. This job’s responsibilities include ensuring the safety of information for users and employees. While also developing, implementing, and maintaining the information security and risk management programs. The chief information security officer also interacts with industry stakeholders and gives them regular briefings with details about information security concerns.
Why Should You Opt for This Career Field of Cybersecurity?
A massive number of jobs are lined up in this field, whether on LinkedIn, Indeed, or any other job platform.
In a world where everything has shifted towards a virtual setting, an increase in virtual cyberattacks is observed. For this very reason, every industry, institute, and governmental organization is on the lookout for cyber-security experts.
In the field of cyber security, there are several career paths open to you, whether you're an engineer, tester, or responder.
Companies on the lookout for cybersecurity-skilled professionals:
Deloitte
Phillips
Seimens
ManTech
Google
Dynetics
ICF
Microsoft
Nike
GE
Capital Group
This is a list of some companies; for more, you can find them on different social media platforms and various job boards.
To sum up, the career field of cyber security is truly rewarding and demanding. People who invest their skills and knowledge in the field of cyber security have a bright path in the long run.
