The Importance of Cybersecurity Training
In a world where tech is part of our everyday lives, data protection needs to be a top priority for you, everyone you know, and the organizations that we interact with all the time. You’ve probably already been told that’s it’s important to protect your personal info and watch out for attempts to access and exploit it. Companies also emphasize data protection and cybersecurity. The people who help them succeed in those efforts are dedicated cybersecurity professionals who prevent intrusions, defend against attacks, and restore lost assets. Whether you have a passion for computer technology, like to solve puzzles, or just think keeping personal data is critical, a career in cybersecurity might be a rewarding path to consider.
What You Need to Know About Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems and online networks from different types of cyberattacks. Cyberattacks occur when an unauthorized party attempts to access sensitive information from your computer systems. They can come in different forms including phishing, ransomware, and malware.
- Malware: Malware, the most common type of cybersecurity threat, is malicious software that is attached to your computer and systems in an effort to damage, disrupt, or destroy your data. The term malware encompasses a variety of cyberattacks that can affect your systems differently.
- Ransomware: Ransomware is a form of malware that denies you access to your computer data. Cybercriminals hold data hostage until the original owner pays a ransom. These attacks come in the form of malicious website links, phishing emails, and infected advertisements.
- Phishing: Phishing is a cybersecurity threat that attempts to collect computer information like login credentials or financial information by disguising as a credible website link or email.
Professional Cybersecurity Training
To be successful in the cybersecurity field, you need to understand cybersecurity attacks and measures to prevent them. You can’t protect critical technology without knowledge about how it works and where it might be vulnerable. Among the areas your training should cover are:
- Cyber Threats and Countermeasures
- Secure Software Development
- Web Application Security
- Network Security and Monitoring
- Cloud Security
- Infrastructure Security
- Mobile Forensics
- Ethical Hacking
- Network and Operations Security
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
- Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance
Cybersecurity Training for Everyone
Another important role you would have as a cybersecurity professional would be to train others on the importance of protecting sensitive info. Security awareness teaches what to look for and how to protect physical and IT assets, avoid phishing and malware, and quickly report problems. As a cybersecurity professional, you can’t be everywhere at all times, but you can teach others how to be a first line of defense.
Why Is Cybersecurity Important?
Cybersecurity professionals are the backbone of any organization housing sensitive information. You protect the business and employees from data breaches that can lead to identity theft, stolen intellectual property, and other types of cybercrimes. Cybersecurity is also important for maintaining strong relationships with a company’s consumer base, as criminals will target their data as well. Ensuring the safety of your customers’ sensitive information helps prevent legal liabilities and builds consumer growth and retention.
You may not get to wear a cape, but as a cybersecurity professional, you could be a hero. Interested in this kind of career? Charter College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity program that provides you with knowledge and skills to find entry-level work in the cybersecurity field. It spans 60 weeks (15 months) and classes start every five weeks for added flexibility. You can also earn important certifications, including Network+, Security+, Cloud+, CISSP and TestOut. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form for more information.