What Is Cybersecurity Management & Policy?
Roughly every 39 seconds, a cyberattack occurs — and as our daily lives are becoming increasingly dependent on technology, attacks are only becoming more frequent.
In the past year, experts estimate that more than 800,000 people have fallen victim to cyberattacks, leaving their personal information exposed. Organizations lose more than $17,000 every minute due to phishing.
With rapidly advancing technology, it's hard for organizations to keep up with the growing threats — which is why experts in cybersecurity are quickly proving crucial in a wide variety of institutions.
What is cybersecurity management and policy, and why does it matter?
Cybersecurity management involves the strategic planning, operations, implementation, and monitoring of cybersecurity practices within an organization.
A cybersecurity manager is responsible for ensuring that their organization's information systems, networks, and data are protected from cyber threats. While cybersecurity itself is included in this field, cybersecurity management also involves overseeing policies, physical security, risk management, data governance, education and training, contractor and vendor management, and disaster preparedness.
The best cybersecurity managers prioritize the bigger picture in their decision making, which gives businesses an organization-wide, enterprise approach to protecting their information systems, networks, and data.
What does employment look like in the cybersecurity field?
The median annual wage for information security analysts was $102,600 in May 2021, and the field is only growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, while U.S. employment as a whole is expected to increase by 5% on average from 2021-2031, information security analysts can expect to see a 35% increase in employment.
“High demand is expected for information security analysts. Cyberattacks have grown in frequency, and these analysts will be needed to create innovative solutions to prevent hackers from stealing critical information or creating problems for computer networks.”
- U.S. Bureau of Labor
Cybersecurity management can be used in a variety of settings, including:
- Financial institutions
- Healthcare organizations
- Retail stores
- Energy and utility services
- Government agencies
- Consulting and professional services
- Information technology companies
One of the appeals of pursuing a career in cybersecurity is the variety of jobs within the profession. For example, you could work in a security operations center for a large corporation and help secure a network by analyzing logs, configuring tools and conducting vulnerability assessments. Or you could have a more offensive role, testing a network for attack methods which reflect real world threats. The large scope of specialties available in the field ensures that a person can find a role that suits their strengths and preferences.
Gabriel Ricks
Special Agent with U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, CFCE, 3CI
Working in the field of cybersecurity is a rewarding experience. As a cybersecurity professional, you have the opportunity to make an impact on the world through your knowledge and expertise. It's a great field for any person with a desire for continuous learning as the industry is always evolving to reflect the newest technologies and attack vectors available.
What skills should someone in the field of cybersecurity have?
To become a cybersecurity manager, you typically need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field, such as cybersecurity, information technology, or business.
After you’ve earned your degree, you may start out in technical roles, such as a security analyst or network administrator, before moving into management roles. This experience provides a valuable foundation in the technical aspects of cybersecurity, as well as an understanding of the operational and strategic considerations involved in managing a cybersecurity program. The best cybersecurity management professionals have both technical knowledge and management and strategic planning skills
Similar positions in cybersecurity include information security, data governance, and risk management, so experience in these positions can also open doors in the field.
In either case, bachelor’s degree programs help prepare you beyond the technical skills by helping students cultivate soft skills like communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and social intelligence. For instance, communication skills are vital in explaining technical issues to non-technical stakeholders.
What technology should you be familiar with when entering the cybersecurity field?
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Firewalls
Firewalls are network security devices that monitor and control incoming and outgoing traffic based on predefined rules. They help to block unauthorized access to a network or computer system.
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Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS or IPS)
Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems are network security technologies that detect and prevent unauthorized access or attacks on a network or computer system. They monitor network traffic and look for signs of suspicious or malicious activity. -
Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware Software
These are software applications that protect against malware, viruses, and other types of malicious software. They scan for and remove malware from a computer system, preventing it from causing damage. -
Encryption
Encryption is the process of converting data into a code to prevent unauthorized access. Encryption is used to protect sensitive data, such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal information. -
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
A VPN is a secure connection between two devices or networks over the internet that is used to protect sensitive data through encryption. -
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-Factor Authentication is a security system that requires more than one method of authentication to verify a user's identity before allowing access. For example, a user may need to enter a randomized text code from another device in addition to their original password before entering their account. -
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
SIEM is a software solution that collects and analyzes security-related data from multiple sources, such as network devices, servers, and applications. SIEM helps to identify and respond to security incidents in real time.
Expertise in cybersecurity is in high demand across industries to protect against the growing number of cyberthreats. To join a force of professionals that will serve as leaders, creating policies and workplace cultures that will protect organizations both now and in the future, get started by learning about George Fox’s accelerated online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity management.