Sometimes, doesn’t it feel like we’re in a sci-fi movie where hackers are the new super villains? 

The world of cybersecurity has evolved dramatically over the last decade, to say the least. What was once a siloed IT department function, with almost zero interaction with other business units, has now become a worrying issue company-wide for the biggest of global businesses. 

From ransomware attacks that encrypt data and demand payment for its release, to phishing attacks that trick innocent workers into sharing sensitive information, the variety of threats is endless. With the increasing number of such high-profile threats, companies across all industries are acknowledging cybersecurity as an essential role.

This blog post explores the top cybersecurity skills that are in demand in 2023, and expected to protect your business against evolving, sophisticated threats. 

Top 5 cybersecurity trends we can see more of in 2023

Let’s delve into some key trends to keep an eye out for in 2023.

SBOM and software supply chain security

A survey showed 68% of responding companies were victims of supply chain attacks in 2021, with 46% never having supply chain as a security priority. Surprised?

Supply chains can be easily manipulated by injecting malicious code or manipulating the supply chain process to introduce vulnerabilities. SBOM (Software Bill of Materials), in this regard, can help improve supply chain transparency by providing a complete list of all in-app software components to identify potential vulnerabilities.

IoT and cloud security

IoT and cloud security had always been a complex topic, to start with. With multiple devices and services involved, and the need for real-time data processing and analysis, it’s now creating privacy concerns and easily exploitable vulnerabilities. 

As more organizations move to the cloud, the number of cloud vulnerabilities will also grow. As for IoT devices, attackers use them as gateways to reach more devices and networks.

AI will gain prominence

AI may be problematic but one of its advantages include helping identify and address vulnerabilities more quickly and efficiently. It aggregates and analyzes data from multiple sources to provide better threat intelligence, making it easier to detect and respond to potential threats. Also, as it automates routine tasks, human resources get more time to focus on more strategic activities.

Data privacy and security

With numerous high-profile incidents impacting governments, businesses, and individuals, the need to implement comprehensive data protection strategies (encryption, access controls, and monitoring tools) is crucial today. Data privacy and security also requires staying updated in terms of compliance and avoiding potential legal consequences.

Zero trust policies and culture

With remote working on the rise, the conventional network perimeters have become increasingly difficult to secure. Zero Trust models, however, offer a stronger framework for protecting access to resources from any location and device, without relying on a traditional perimeter defense. 

IAM and network access management

Identity and access management (IAM) and network access management will become more important than ever for good reason. With the post-pandemic growth of remote and hybrid work culture, these technologies help ensure that only authorized individuals can access sensitive information and systems, protecting against data breaches and cyber attacks. 

Top cybersecurity skills in demand

Given that we will be seeing a rise in these trends, companies are going the extra mile to find professionals with the requisite cybersecurity skills to protect their assets. Here are some skills in demand right now.

Risk and threat assessment

A cybersecurity risk and threat analyst is skilled in identifying and evaluating potential risks and threats to an organization’s information assets. This skill is essential in developing a good risk posture, effective vulnerability management strategies and countermeasures to prevent or mitigate the impact of cyber attacks.

Cloud security

With the increasing adoption of cloud computing, businesses are entrusting their critical data and applications to third-party providers, making cloud security a top concern. 

It revolves around the implementation of security measures, such as access control, encryption, and monitoring, and detecting and preventing security breaches. Professionals in this field must learn about different cloud service and deployment models and security protocols. They also must work closely with other teams (IT, data management) to build a cyber resilient infrastructure.

Incident response

The increasing frequency and complexity of cyber threats make it critical for organizations to have effective incident response plans and professionals who can lead and execute these plans. 

Incident response professionals are responsible for analyzing security breaches, identifying the attack scope and severity, containing and eradicating the attack, and implementing security measures to prevent future threats. Just like firefighters or the police, an incident response professional is the first in line when a security breach happens as they immediately strive to neutralise the threat.

Digital forensics/assurance/audits/compliance and testing

Digital forensics helps identify the attack source, determine the extent of damage, and gather evidence to support legal action or other remediation efforts. A digital forensics professional would also be tasked with recovering crucial compromised data and would be skilled in compiling relevant evidence to make a legal case.

Compliance, on the other hand, involves conforming to industry and legal standards and guidelines, while assurance verifies whether the system meets its intended security requirements. Auditors review and analyze the system’s security controls to ensure they are effective, while testers proactively assess the system’s security through vulnerability testing, penetration testing, and other methods.

Collaboration/cybersec research/government and management

These professionals work closely with different stakeholders to identify, assess, and manage cyber risks. Collaboration skills are crucial in the e-world, because threats are constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated. Cybersecurity research skills allow professionals to stay abreast of the latest threats and develop new mitigating solutions. 

Lastly, government and management skills are necessary for effective policymaking and enforcement of cybersecurity measures.

Cybersecurity skills in demand are always changing as technology advances and threats become more sophisticated.

It’s important for companies worldwide, now more than ever, to build a security-first culture by educating and training their staff to avoid common mistakes and stay ahead. Besides, with the high demand for cybersecurity professionals, there are great opportunities for young aspirants to seek faster career growth and make a difference. 

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