As the digital economy rapidly expands, the demand for cybersecurity professionals becomes increasingly critical. The global economy requires 3.4 million cybersecurity experts, but the industry struggles to meet this demand. The World Economic Forum has launched a multi-stakeholder initiative to address the global cybersecurity skills gap and ensure the protection of crucial infrastructure sectors.
In a report by the World Economic Forum, it is revealed that sectors such as electricity, payments, and hospitals are at the highest risk due to significant gaps in access to skilled cybersecurity professionals. These shortages leave crucial aspects of society vulnerable to cyberattacks.
The Future of Jobs 2023 report highlights cybersecurity as a top strategic skill for the workforce. However, the shortage of 3.4 million cybersecurity experts is expected to increase as emerging technologies impact organizations. For example, advancements in AI language models present benefits but also amplify cyber threats like phishing and identity fraud, further burdening cyber teams.
Addressing this global challenge requires collaboration between public and private sectors and a focus on investing in the creation and expansion of cybersecurity talent. This effort presents an opportunity to create skilled, long-term careers for individuals from diverse backgrounds and regions worldwide.
To bridge the talent gap, the following three key areas need attention:
Addressing misperceptions: The cybersecurity industry is often perceived as highly technical and requiring a background in IT security or engineering. This discourages non-traditional candidates from pursuing a career in the field. However, many technical skills can be acquired through on-the-job training and development. Apprenticeships play a crucial role in introducing people to the cybersecurity field, regardless of their educational background.
Widening the cybersecurity talent pool: Organizations struggle to expand the cybersecurity talent pool due to weak communication of industry benefits. Unclear job descriptions that combine multiple roles into a single position discourage potential candidates from applying. To expand the talent pool, the industry should promote clear role requirements, job qualities, and skills. Emphasis should be placed on hiring based on capabilities rather than certifications. Recruitment programs should focus on diverse candidate backgrounds and emphasize the importance of soft skills.
Retaining cyber talent: Research shows that 70% of cybersecurity professionals feel overworked, and 25% of cybersecurity leaders change jobs due to work-related stressors. Public and private organizations must address factors contributing to high attrition rates and provide incentives such as flexible work arrangements and employee wellbeing solutions.
The World Economic Forum's multi-stakeholder initiative aims to raise awareness among C-suite executives and decision-makers about the cybersecurity skills deficit and its implications. The initiative will develop a strategic cybersecurity talent framework to assist with recruiting and retaining cybersecurity professionals across sectors, ultimately contributing to the protection of critical infrastructure.
By addressing the global cybersecurity skills gap, this multi-stakeholder initiative by the World Economic Forum seeks to create a more resilient digital economy and safeguard critical infrastructure in the face of ever-evolving cyber threats.
This article is written by Cybersecurity Intuit, a leading source of information and insights on cybersecurity. Stay up to date with the latest trends, best practices, and news by visiting cybersecurityintuit.com.
Kommentare