HOW TO GET INTO CYBER SECURITY?

CONTENTS:

• Understanding Cyber Security

• First steps into your Cyber Security Career

• Transitioning into Cyber Security for IT Pros

• Cementing your Cyber Security Career

• Why Attend the UTE Conference

Cybersecurity as we know it has become increasingly important in today’s digital world, making it almost impossible for businesses to survive without it. With that being said, the demand for cybersecurity experts has skyrocketed. If you don’t believe me, have a look at this statistic: ‘The Bureau of Labour Statistics projects that the number of Cyber Security jobs will grow 32% in the next decade – much faster than the average for occupations overall.’  Industries such as Healthcare, E-Commerce and even Education are all in increasing demand for CyberSecurity proffesionals. Amazing, right? But how on Earth do I even get a job in CyberSecurity? Look no further, as we show you exactly how to get into CyberSecurity in this article. 

Understanding CyberSecurity:

Cybersecurity is essentially your shield in the digital world, tasked with protecting all your online activities, personal information, and all the data you share or store on your devices. It’s crucial in keeping your private life private, ensuring that everything from your emails to your online banking remains secure. This digital shield is vital because it defends against the majority of cyber threats that are always lurking in the shadows of the internet. 

What it fights against:

When it comes to cybersecurity threats, the first thing that comes to mind is the movies where the protagonist is trying to hack a ticking time-bomb from some software to save the whole of mankind. In real life, cybersecurity is pretty similar, just less… movie-like. Let’s take a look:

Among the villains in the digital world are malware, a type of software that’s specifically designed to wreak havoc on your computer or steal your data; phishing scams, which are implicit attempts to trick you into handing over sensitive information under the guise of legitimate requests(e.g. Through emails asking for your bank details); and ransomware, a dirty trick that locks you out of your own files, holding them ransom until you pay up. Each of these threats brings its own set of challenges to the table, demanding that we stay vigilant and employ robust cybersecurity measures to keep our digital lives intact.

But it’s not just about having the right antivirus software or a strong firewall; it’s also about understanding the nature of these threats. As they evolve and become more sophisticated, our approach to cybersecurity must also adapt. By staying informed and cautious, we can navigate the online world more safely, keeping our digital assets secure. This ongoing battle for digital safety underscores the importance of cybersecurity in our interconnected world, making it an essential aspect of modern living that we all need to understand and engage with.

First steps into your CyberSecurity Career:

If you’ve reached this far, I’m guessing you REALLY want to know how to enter the CyberSecurity world. So I won’t waste much of your time. Starting a career in cybersecurity will have lots of twists and turns. But don’t worry. We’ve put together 6 actionable steps you can take to help lift your career to new heights:

1. Building the Foundation: You don’t need to be a computer genius from the start. Begin with some basic knowledge in computer science and information technology. There are TONS of online programmes you can take part in to help with this. This’ll give you the understanding of the basics of online safety and what keeps our digital world secure.

2. Learn by Doing: Join online communities and try out hackathons. Think of hackathons as team-based puzzles where you get to solve real cybersecurity problems with others. It’s a fun and practical way to learn that goes beyond just reading books or watching tutorials on YouTube. Unless you really enjoy learning that way. By all means, use everything to your advantage.

As the saying goes: The world is your oyster.

3. Stay Curious: Keep up with the latest in technology just like you’d follow updates on your favourite TV show or sports team. This keeps your knowledge fresh and prepares you for new challenges as CyberSecurity is an ever-changing field, with new threats requiring destruction all the time.

4. Get Certified: Certifications are simply a confirmation that shows you’ve got specific skills. Look into starting with beginner ones like CompTIA Security+. You don’t always need a college/university degree; there are plenty of online courses that can help you get these certifications as mentioned earlier.

5. Start Small: Once you’ve got some basics down, look for entry-level jobs like being a security analyst or a junior penetration tester. (Yeah… you heard that right.) These roles are your first step into the cybersecurity world, where every task teaches you something new about protecting digital spaces.

(You’ll need this website to aid you: https://www.learningpeople.com/uk/become-a-cyber-security-professional/?utm_term=it%20security&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source)

6. Joining the Community: Engage excessively in cybersecurity events to further your knowledge of the field and gain a broader insight into the vast world of cybersecurity.

Remember, starting a career in cybersecurity is about building your skills step by step. It’s okay to start with little to no knowledge. This is a given whenever you begin learning a new skill in life. With curiosity, learning, and connecting with others, you’ll find your way into this exciting field, ready to make a difference in protecting our digital world.

Transitioning into CyberSecurity for IT Pros:

Transitioning from an IT background to a career in cybersecurity is not just a shift; it’s a strategic leap into a realm brimming with opportunities for innovation, challenge, and significant impact. Your journey into cybersecurity starts with the skills you already have. For example, if you’re skilled in network administration, network security could be your calling. Software developers might find their niche in application security, applying their coding skills to protect software against attacks. This direct application of your existing skills not only gives you a head start but also a clear advantage in the cybersecurity domain.  It’s been stated that 57% of companies have a cybersecurity skills shortage. So you don’t want to be wasting any time AT ALL.  This is how you can take advantage:

1. 1. While certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or OSCP are golden tickets into cybersecurity, they’re not the only route. Many professionals find success through bootcamps, self-study programs, and even mentorship under seasoned cybersecurity experts. These alternative pathways can be equally rewarding, offering hands-on experience and practical knowledge without the formal certification process. These will prove vital for job applications.

2. Familiarise yourself in the cybersecurity community through forums, webinars, and local meetups. The UTE Conference is an example of this; you can hear from experts firsthand AND get hands-on experience.  Platforms like Stack Exchange or cybersecurity subreddits are also great for beginners and experts alike, offering a space to ask questions, share knowledge, and connect with peers. Participating in hackathons or cybersecurity competitions can also sharpen your skills and expand your network. These engagements provide invaluable insights into the field’s latest trends and challenges, helping you stay ahead of the curve.

3. Cybersecurity offers a diverse array of career paths, from ethical hacking and digital forensics to security policy development and incident response. Each role requires a unique set of skills and offers different challenges and rewards. For instance, an ethical hacker proactively tests systems for vulnerabilities, while a security analyst monitors networks for potential threats. Understanding these roles can help you find your place in the cybersecurity ecosystem and tailor your learning and development accordingly.

Transitioning to cybersecurity can come with its set of challenges, such as keeping up with the fast pace of technological change or finding the right learning resources. So how can you overcome these hurdles?

By setting clear, achievable goals, seeking guidance from mentors, and continuously engaging in self-directed learning you’ll quickly begin to understand the many challenges of cybersecurity. Remember, resilience and a willingness to adapt are your most valuable assets on this journey. By breaking down the transition into actionable steps and exploring various pathways and opportunities, you’re well on your way to a rewarding career in cybersecurity. Embrace the journey with an open mind, and let your passion for technology and security drive you forward.

P.S: If you’re wondering about the salary, don’t stress. In the UK, you can make a range of £55,000 to £77,000 per annum. Or if you live in the US, the range of salary per annum starts at a STAGGERING $95,000 to $169,000. So if I were you, I’d be on the ball from this very second, because these jobs are going to be taken like store items on Black Friday!

Cementing your CyberSecurity Career:

As you go through the years of your cybersecurity career, broadening your knowledge will play crucial in your status in the field, and how you are perceived by you when discussing matters on CyberSecurity to like-minded individuals. Here are some ways to level up in the cyber-world.

1. 1. You’ll need to be able to first think both like the attacker and defender. What do I mean by this? Well this dual perspective is crucial for anticipating vulnerabilities and devising robust defences against them, as you can break down what exactly the attackers will use to cause threats to websites, businesses and even your personal online assets by taking their position.

2. Building a personal brand in the cybersecurity community can significantly enhance your career prospects. Start a blog, contribute to open-source projects, or share your insights on social media platforms such as X, LinkedIn, Instagram etc.These activities not only demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the field but also help you stand out to potential employers.

Or if you feel you need some more cash in your pocket, you can sell courses, programmes or even hold webinars on your social media account to BOOST your status, whilst earning tons more.

3. Another key step is to familiarise yourself with the legal and ethical considerations of cybersecurity. As digital guardians, cybersecurity professionals must navigate a complex landscape of laws and regulations that vary by country and industry. Understanding these legal frameworks ensures that your security practices are not only effective but also compliant with global standards. You don’t want to end up serving life-sentences because you didn’t know about one legal constraint. DO NOT set yourself up for failure.

4. Staying current with emerging technologies is another critical aspect of a successful cybersecurity career. Technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are reshaping the cybersecurity landscape, offering new tools for defence but also new vulnerabilities to guard against. Engaging with these technologies will prepare you for the future challenges and opportunities in the field.

5. Lastly, consider the power of specialisation. As cybersecurity is a broad field, specialising in a niche area such as cloud security, cryptography, or threat intelligence can make you particularly valuable to employers. Deep expertise in a specific area can lead to more advanced positions and opportunities to lead initiatives within organisations or the broader cybersecurity community.

6. For example, I have 2 job applicants. Applicant A has a broad understanding of niche A in Cybersecurity.  You also have applicant B who has a deep understanding of niche A, has experience implementing it, and can provide insights into how it can be improved and its dangers. It’s a no brainer I’ll choose applicant B, and for good reason.

By focusing on these additional aspects, you’ll be well-equipped to make a successful transition into the dynamic and rewarding field of cybersecurity. This journey is one of continuous learning and adaptation, offering the chance to make a significant impact in protecting the digital world.

And if you want to gain more insights on cybersecurity in general, have a look at the rest of our detailed articles on the information section or you should join us in the vibrant city of Cebu on August 23rd for an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the cutting-edge of cybersecurity. This isn’t just another conference; it’s your gateway to a community of pioneers and innovators, ready to share their secrets and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Secure your ticket now and be part of an event that could redefine your understanding of cybersecurity and catapult your career into new heights. Don’t miss out on this chance to transform your passion into action. See you in Cebu!