Criminals are always exploiting our incompetence to their advantage. According to a report (ISC), there is a global shortage of nearly 3 million cybersecurity professionals. There are multiple reasons for the shortage of cybersecurity experts, such as the increasing sophistication of cybersecurity threats, the increasing rate of technological advancement, and insufficient investment in cybersecurity education. But what does this mean for cybercriminals? It's easier to make money.
The Cybersecurity Skills Gap
The cybersecurity skills gap refers to the need for more qualified professionals with the skills and knowledge to effectively protect all data online. The above gap has widened dramatically in recent years and is expected to continue to widen in the near future.
However, the cybersecurity skills gap is not just a theoretical issue. Sadly, it has real and huge costs to organizations and society at large. Let's take a look at how the cybersecurity skills gap affects us all.
Increased Risk of Cyber Attacks
An increase in cyberattacks is responsible for the cybersecurity skills gap. Without enough qualified professionals to detect, prevent and respond to cyber threats, individuals and businesses are more vulnerable. This is indeed worrisome, as cyberattacks will only become more frequent, sophisticated and destructive.
Higher Cybersecurity Costs
The need for more cybersecurity professionals also leads to higher costs of maintaining cybersecurity. With limited qualified experts, organizations must pay higher salaries to attract and retain cybersecurity talent. Additionally, outsourcing cybersecurity services from third-party providers can be expensive, especially when the providers are located in different countries with different costs of living.
negative impact on business
A cybersecurity skills gap can also negatively impact business. With a limited cybersecurity workforce, organizations may not be able to comply with cybersecurity regulations, which can lead to fines and reputational damage. Additionally, cyberattacks can disrupt business operations, resulting in lost revenue and damaged customer trust.
Impact on National Security
The cybersecurity skills gap is a problem for both business and national security. A lack of cybersecurity professionals in government agencies and the military could leave the country vulnerable to cyber attacks, seriously affecting national security and public safety.
What can we do about it?
With an understanding of the current situation, it is more important than ever to act and invest in cybersecurity. Here are some ways we can do this:
Invest in cybersecurity education and training
Investing in cybersecurity education and training is one way to close the cybersecurity skills gap. This includes funding cybersecurity degree programs, certification programs, and professional development opportunities. This investment attracts and retains cybersecurity talent and ensures professionals have the skills and knowledge to effectively protect systems and data from cyberthreats.
Raise public awareness about cybersecurity
Digital security in general starts with ourselves. As a society, we must learn the basics and possible threats of cybersecurity. Investing in good antivirus software, updating your passwords regularly, not opening suspicious links, and even using a VPN are essential. In short, it's a service that encrypts your internet traffic and masks your real IP. With a VPN on, it's nearly impossible to intercept your data.
Encouraging Diversity in Cybersecurity
Another way to find new cybersecurity talent is to encourage diversity in the field. Currently, the cybersecurity workforce is predominantly male and lacks diversity. Encouraging more women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups to pursue cybersecurity careers can increase the number of qualified cybersecurity professionals and bring new perspectives and ideas to the fight against cyberthreats.
Implement automation and artificial intelligence
Automation and artificial intelligence can also help bridge the cybersecurity skills gap. These technologies can be used to automate repetitive tasks, such as patching and updating systems, and analyzing large volumes of data to identify potential threats. This frees cybersecurity professionals to focus on more complex tasks and reduces the need for large numbers of cybersecurity personnel.