A recent study commissioned by Kaspersky sheds light on the primary cause of cyber incidents over the past two years. According to the findings, human error accounts for nearly two-thirds of all incidents, highlighting the critical role of human factors in cybersecurity. Human error is identified as the leading factor in cyber incidents, underscoring the importance of addressing knowledge gaps and improving cybersecurity awareness.
Global Cybersecurity Shortage Compounds Challenges
Despite the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, organizations worldwide are grappling with a severe shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals. The study underscores the urgent need for skilled professionals to mitigate cyber risks and safeguard sensitive data.
The global shortage of cybersecurity professionals exacerbates challenges posed by cyber threats, emphasizing the importance of recruiting and training skilled professionals.
Common Errors Plague New Cybersecurity Professionals
Among cybersecurity professionals surveyed, more than 50 percent admit to making mistakes early in their careers due to a lack of theoretical or practical knowledge. The study reveals common errors such as failure to update software, weak password management, and neglecting timely backups, highlighting the need for comprehensive training programs.
New cybersecurity professionals are vulnerable to common errors due to knowledge gaps, emphasizing the importance of robust training and education initiatives.
Challenges in Cybersecurity Career Start
Many newcomers to the cybersecurity field face challenges in launching their careers, with 34 percent reporting multiple failed interviews before securing a position. These early hurdles underscore the competitive nature of the industry and the need for aspiring professionals to acquire relevant skills and experience.
Aspiring cybersecurity professionals encounter challenges in entering the industry, highlighting the need for effective strategies to overcome barriers to entry.
Addressing Industry Hurdles
Marina Alekseeva, Chief Human Resources Officer at Kaspersky said, “It’s no secret that formal training programs often struggle to keep up with industry developments, and that is especially true for the cybersecurity field. The fact that many employees in the market might have limited practical skills or gaps in their knowledge underlines the importance of a comprehensive onboarding process with a focus on peer learning and means companies must pay more attention to the upskilling of their employees. For Kaspersky, employees are the most valuable asset, so we have been investing continuously in the education of the company’s corporate staff, enhancing employees’ capabilities and fostering a culture of learning and continuous development. We’ve also been contributing to bridging the existing cybersecurity talent gap by providing industry-leading individual and corporate training courses for IT professionals.”
Integration Challenges and Adaptation Time
Nearly half of cybersecurity professionals take over a year to feel comfortable in their roles, highlighting the integration challenges faced by new entrants. However, with proper support and training, the majority eventually find their footing in the industry.
New cybersecurity professionals require time to adapt to their roles, underscoring the importance of ongoing support and mentorship programs.
Recommendations for Bridging the Gap
Kaspersky recommends proactive measures to tackle knowledge gaps and ensure a smoother integration of cybersecurity professionals into the workforce.
- Updating Training Programs for Cybersecurity Education –To address knowledge gaps in cybersecurity, training programs must undergo updates to become more flexible and adaptable. Collaboration with industry experts and players is key to achieving this goal. Kaspersky is actively involved in this effort through its Kaspersky Academy Alliance, which integrates cybersecurity expertise into university programs, providing access to lectures, training sessions, and cutting-edge technologies.
- Gaining Practical Experience in Cybersecurity –Individuals aspiring to enter the cybersecurity field can gain valuable real-life experience through internships in information security or research and development departments. Participation in international competitions or Capture the Flag events offers another avenue for enhancing practical skills. Stay updated on internship opportunities and global competitions by following Kaspersky’s LinkedIn page.
- Investing in Upskilling Programs for Corporate Staff – Businesses can foster a culture of continuous learning by investing in upskilling programs for their corporate staff. By providing employees with new knowledge and skills, companies can ensure they remain competitive in today’s rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape. Kaspersky offers a diverse range of training programs tailored to information security professionals, catering to both individuals and corporate teams.
Accessing Further Insights
For further insights into cybersecurity professionals’ educational backgrounds and early career challenges, the full report is available for reference. Interested parties can access the report via the provided link to gain a deeper understanding of the industry’s obstacles and potential solutions.
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