Cybersecurity Training

Cloud computing, a hybrid environment, the proliferation of SaaS, and remote working have created complex IT systems. Data is created and flows through these systems. Human operators are at the forefront of this complex mesh of technologies. A recent report from Thales has found that the average company has multiple security tools, often employing five or more data discovery solutions and encryption key managers. This "tool sprawl" is behind an increase in misconfiguration and operational errors, which can lead to security breaches.

Cybersecurity training utilizes formal education to educate employees on the importance of security, thereby reducing the risk of human-centered security incidents.

What is Cybersecurity Training?

IT teams, developers, and other IT support staff are tasked with ensuring that the corporate network, data, IT assets, and their people are secure. However, these roles often have heavy workloads, leaving individuals little time to learn about the cybersecurity threats targeting their industry.

Cybersecurity training provides guided education to key IT staff on best-practice security. The training involves security training courses, and some staff may take certification exams to demonstrate their knowledge in implementing and managing security in an organization.

The training courses usually include the following:

• Understanding of threat types and how threats evolve. How these threats attack cloud and on-premise infrastructure, and the human element in cyberattacks.
• Tactics, techniques, and processes (TTPs) used by attackers.
• Security tools and the importance of Defense in Depth and layered security.
• Attack lifecycle and the use of data for follow-on attacks.
• Incident response and security policy adherence.
• Common misconceptions in information security to avoid pitfalls.

Why is Cybersecurity Training Important?

Organizations have undergone significant changes to their working practices over recent years. The digitization of processes has led to hybrid infrastructures where critical apps and data reside in the cloud and on-premises. Remote workers have added to the expanded attack surface.

Cybercriminals look to exploit weaknesses in a system or process. Misconfigurations and human error are recognized as leading causes of security incidents. A recent cloud security survey from Check Point found that 27% of organizations had experienced a public cloud security incident, with 23% of these caused by misconfigurations. Worse still, human error is behind 60% of data breaches. The errors include system administration issues, like forgetting to secure a web server or leaving default passwords in place.

Changing threats, such as GenAI, deepfakes, and evasive tactics (Quishing), are adding to the challenges of IT teams in keeping up with a shifting threat landscape. The people behind the technology that a company depends on are essential in maintaining security. IT teams must be able to contend with new tools and techniques in both countering cyber threats and accidental data exposure.

As such, cybersecurity training that covers the threat landscape and how to identify and respond to threats is an essential part of developing a robust security posture.

Who Should Receive Cybersecurity Training?

Cybersecurity training is designed for specific individuals in an organization. The roles that should be considered for this training are the following:

Common Cybersecurity Training Certifications and Courses

IT staff are trained using cybersecurity training packages. Some staff may be suitable for further focused training that results in certification. Some examples of training and certification are as follows:

Example Certifications

• CompTIA Security+ certification: The course and exam focus on practical, hands-on skills to tackle real-world security challenges.
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Ideal for anyone who is involved in designing the cybersecurity strategy and policies at an organization. CISM covers Information Security Governance, Risk Management, and Incident Management.
• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): Ideal for IT technicians and IT management. The course and exam focus on essential areas, including active defense, network security, and cryptography.
• Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): This exam is designed for more experienced IT professionals. It teaches advanced technical skills needed to design, manage, and secure data, applications, and infrastructure in the cloud.

Example Cybersecurity Training Courses

Cybersecurity training courses are available from a variety of vendors. Two example vendors that provide dedicated training packages are:

• IT Governance: Offer training for IT departments led by security experts. The course is not examined.
• Blue Team Academy: Dedicated cybersecurity training for IT system administrators.

Further reading

To prepare your team for cybersecurity training, you may wish to read some general guidelines:

• CyberAssist from the Defense Industrial Base Sector Coordinating Council (DIB SCC).
• NIST SP 800-144 Guidelines on Security and Privacy in Public Cloud Computing.

As cyberattacks grow in volume and complexity, with AI-assistance making identification and prevention challenging, Cybersecurity training for IT teams is essential. Your IT department can benefit from certifications and courses that equip them with the knowledge to effectively tackle these complex threats. The training will also ensure that they are aware of the importance of robust security when installing, managing, and configuring IT assets.

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