Back before the internet became ingrained in every aspect of modern life, the idea of going into the field of cyber security wasn’t even considered or understood. It certainly wasn’t a field in which many corporations had position openings.
The increased cyber security demand has resulted in many opportunities in the workplace and colleges worldwide. Many colleges now offer a cybersecurity certificate or cybersecurity degree, including vocational or trade schools.
Here are some reasons why there’s a higher demand for cyber security training, such as an occupational associate’s degree in the field.
New Hacking Techniques
An increase in cyber security demand comes hand in hand with improved hacking techniques and programs.
Hackers are constantly finding new ways to access data every day, regardless of the type of technology. Cybersecurity experts have to patch holes in their security and get rid of exploits in their software. As hacking skills grow, so do the number of cybersecurity specialists needed to develop advanced security solutions.
The Cost of Cybercrime
Cybercrime is expensive. As of 2020, the global cost of cybercrime was estimated at over $1 trillion. It’s predicted to exceed $10.5 trillion annually by 2025.
Most businesses can’t afford to suffer a data breach for many reasons.
First of all, a data breach makes their clients and customers vulnerable to cyber attacks. They could quickly lose money and find their accounts compromised, tracing back to you. It’s not a good look for your company.
Second, a company has to spend time and money on damage control and securing their databases whenever there’s a data breach. In that time, they won’t be able to operate their business. A hacker may also secure intellectual property that could hinder operational and growth plans.
Overreliance on Online Software
The internet is a wonderful invention that has helped to streamline many processes. However, it also provides an easy path for thieves to access your private information.
Automated processes speed up how a company operates, but each system is created by code. That code can be accessed when cybercriminals break into your network. Once these criminals have access to your network, they can steal whatever private information you have on the system.
Another way hackers could go after companies is by shutting down their websites through a DOS attack. This type of attack involves flooding a computer server with so much traffic that it slows down to a crawl or shuts down. Any business that operates mainly on an internet portal or website would be at risk.
Increasing Number of Online Devices
In addition to a higher reliance on online software, people also use more devices in the workplace. Over three-fourths of Americans say they often check their email with their smartphones.
You can access certain work apps on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop computer, etc. It’s great because you can easily work on the go, making your information more vulnerable. After all, not every smart device comes with the kind of network security measures as your work network.
Poor Security Adoption Rates
Despite the increasing need for cybersecurity measures, not every company goes to the extent they need to for the protection required.
A smaller company won’t handle the same amount of data as a larger corporation. They may think cybersecurity isn’t worth the investment until their operations grow more. Lucky for them, cybersecurity firms tend to scale their offerings based on what the client needs.
Your employees may also think they’re safe from malware and viruses because they practice good internet behaviors. If their company blocks certain websites, how will they download a virus? However, one of the most common ways employees are targeted is through phishing emails that pose as someone of authority.
Many Industry Needs Cybersecurity Specialists
As technologies improve and grow, so do many industries that utilize them. More industries than ever before rely on the internet, especially after the extended pandemic.
The sudden surge in remote work accelerated digital infrastructure adoption. Schools began using online content and virtual classrooms to make physical contact optional. Grocery stores have even gotten in on the game, utilizing delivery apps.
Before, industries that may not have needed sophisticated cybersecurity measures considered cyber security college degree holders. They also need to allocate more time and money to develop those areas.
Improved Optics
More cybersecurity threats mean a higher cybersecurity demand. Higher demand for protection means that companies need to employ more cybersecurity experts.
A side effect is that the job industry has begun to favor cybersecurity experts. If your competitors are hiring more employees in the field, then that shows that they’re putting more into protecting their clients. Your investors will also see your company as a safer investment.
Additionally, cybersecurity experts do more than install protective measures. They often help fix software issues, install hardware like routers, and perform maintenance on your work computers. They will monitor accounts, software, and hardware to ensure safety against attacks.
Meet Your Industry’s Cyber Security Demand
You will always have to consider how companies protect their information in the modern world. The higher the cyber security demand, the more they’ll need to rely on experts. Anyone looking to break into the cybersecurity field should have an easy time finding a job as long as they get the necessary skills.
InterCoast Colleges offers cybersecurity training courses for either an associate’s degree or certification. The Associate Program can take as little as 75 weeks to complete, while the certification course takes approximately 40 weeks. Contact us to learn more about the options available to you at InterCoast for your Cybersecurity career path.