WASHINGTON — Great with computers and looking for a career change? Maybe cyber security is the way to go, considering 35 percent of organizations that expect to get hacked can’t find talented security experts to help them avoid it.
According to a survey of nearly 700 cybersecurity and IT managers and practictioners, 77 percent experienced an increase in attacks in 2014 and even more — 82 percent — fully expect to get attacked in 2015.
At the same time, these managers have a hard time staffing their security teams with talented, qualified people, they said. Only 16 percent feel their people are qualified, and 53 percent say it could take as long as six months to find someone right to fill gaps.
So who is the ideal cybersecurity hire? Someone with formal education, practical experience, and certifications.
“The State of Cybersecurity study reveals a high-risk environment that is being made worse by the lack of skilled talent,” said Robert E Stroud, international president of ISACA (formerly known as Information Systems Audit and Control Association), which sponsored the survey with RSA Conference.
“If there is any silver lining to this looming crisis, it is the opportunities for college graduates and professionals seeking a career change. Cybersecurity professionals are responsible for protecting an organization’s most valuable information assets, and those who are good at it can map out a highly rewarding career path,” noted Stroud.
The full study can be accessed here.
Other findings:
- 79 percent of respondents said their board of directors are concerned with cybersecurity
- 55 percent employ a chief information security officer.
- 56 percent say they will spend more money on cybersecurity and 63 percent say they get enough funding
