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Building a Better Future for Yourself: Cybersecurity Careers

Hackers cost businesses money. With daily threats to security and disclosure of secure information, hackers affect bottom lines and consumer confidence. With nearly 500,000 vacancies around the country, cybersecurity is one of the most in-demand career opportunities available today. 

Are you interested in joining the fast-paced, exciting field of cybersecurity? Then, read on because you might have what it takes! 

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WHAT IS CYBERSECURITY? 

Professionally referred to as “information technology security,” cybersecurity is the protection of computer systems and networks from the theft of or damage to their hardware, software or electronic data, as well as from the disruption or misdirection of the services they provide. In layman’s terms, cybersecurity technicians ensure the regular optimization of all electronic systems and data from foreign threats. 

HOW OFTEN DO ATTACKS OCCUR?

It isn’t uncommon to fall victim to a cybersecurity attack. According to Security Magazine, there are over 2,200 attacks daily, which breaks down to nearly one cyber attack every 39 seconds.

Government defense, healthcare, finance, and educational systems are some of the highest recorded attacks worldwide. For example, nearly 66% of all businesses experienced a phishing attack in 2020. Furthermore, Comparitech estimates a total value loss of 8.6% as the result of a cyberattack. 

Experienced hackers are after vital information such as credit cards, social security, company records, and numbers. Often, these records are then distributed en masse to the highest bidder. One of the most recent cyberattacks threatened to compromise the entire electronic system of the Colonial Pipeline. Even small businesses can fall victim to cybersecurity crime, as they often utilize resources from organizations targeted by cybercriminals.

WHY IS CYBERSECURITY IMPORTANT? 

With an increasing number of hackers beginning to target more complex networks, cybersecurity professionals are constantly educating themselves on the trends of cyber-criminality. In addition, the ripple of cyberattacks can have long-standing effects on the compromised business or corporation and their clients, networks, and other connected companies. 

Cybersecurity experts are vital to company services, detecting vulnerabilities, recommending security programs, and developing backend systems that seek to reduce the frequency and quality of corruption threats. As hackers grow in sophistication, cybersecurity specialization grows with it. 

CYBERSECURITY CAREERS 

Careers in cybersecurity include entry, mid and advanced level positions. Those who are intellectually curious and have strong critical thinking skills are particularly suited for this field. Some might find that they are better suited for consulting, while others are better suited for technical coding. Still, others in the field, who are creative and forward-thinking, seek to develop new technology that offsets cyber threats within government and private industries. 

Careers in cybersecurity are seemingly endless, and may include some of the following:

  • Junior Security Analyst
  • Cyber Operation Specialist
  • Data Recovery Specialist
  • Incident Responder
  • Malware Analyst
  • Pen Tester
  • Computer Support Analyst
  • Help Desk Analyst

Cybersecurity requires a preoccupation with problem-solving and prediction of future behavior. As a result, potential employers will look for someone with data breach experience, technical coding, and security system curation. Here are the top 38 companies that you’ll want to get to know!

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW? 

Cybersecurity experts should begin to acquire a basic understanding of computers, systems and networks, data analysis and programming, fundamental security design principles, knowledge of cryptography and IT system components. They will also need to be well versed in cyber defense and cyber threats. 

While it may seem overwhelming at first glance, those best suited for a career in cybersecurity tend to enjoy it. And here at WVJC Online, we know just where to start!

READY TO BEGIN YOUR CAREER IN CYBERSECURITY? CONTACT WVJC TODAY!

The Cybersecurity Program at WVJC Online prepares students to enter the vastly expanding world of cybersecurity. The immersive program offers simulations, hands-on experience, and an externship at the end of the program. Our instructors are uniquely committed to the success of their students and have shown a willingness to schedule online and in-person meetings when necessary. When questions do arise, you can be sure that someone will be available to help. 

 Choosing a career in cybersecurity can be a great move for you and your future. The exciting field of cybersecurity is growing, and employers are hiring trained candidates to fill these positions. In our program, you will learn to succeed without prior cybersecurity knowledge, making it beginner-friendly.

If you would like to learn more about our Cybersecurity program, give us a call at 877-25ONLINE. You can also download our FREE Ebook now to begin learning about what it takes to get your degree in cybersecurity!