Careers and certifications
Security admins, pen testers and CISOs are a few of many potential cybersecurity careers. Get advice on making a career choice and finding the trainings and certifications -- such as Security+, CISSP and CCSK -- needed to land an infosec job, along with guidance on succeeding in a security profession.
Top Stories
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Opinion
31 Oct 2023
How to overcome the beginner cybersecurity career Catch-22
The workforce gap constantly makes headlines, but that doesn't mean breaking into the field is easy. Get advice on how to start on an entry-level cybersecurity career path. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Oct 2023
What does an IT security manager do?
IT security managers need to have a passion for learning and critical thinking skills, as well as understand intrusion prevention and detection. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jul 2020
Why COVID-19 won't stop cybersecurity jobs and recruitment
The economy is struggling, and many careers are taking hits, but cybersecurity jobs and careers will likely stay in demand as companies need to keep data and customers safe. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jun 2020
Invest in new security talent with cybersecurity mentorships
Cybersecurity mentorships provide a great opportunity for those just entering the industry who want a successful start. Having the right guidance is a must. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 May 2020
CISO stress and burnout cause high churn rate
The nature of the CISO role can take a toll, say industry vets, with frustration and stress contributing to high turnover rates and burnout. Learn how to make it work. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Apr 2020
Skill building is key to furthering gender diversity in tech
Gender disparities imperil the threat intelligence community. Shannon Lietz, leader and director of DevSecOps at Intuit, discusses current efforts to attract female talent. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Mar 2020
CISA exam preparation requires learning ethics, standards, new vocab
The CISA certification is proof of an auditor's knowledge and skills. However, the exam isn't easy and requires some heavy learning -- especially when it comes to vocabulary. Continue Reading
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Quiz
26 Mar 2020
CISA practice questions to prep for the exam
Ready to take the Certified Information Systems Auditor exam? Use these CISA practice questions to test your knowledge of the audit process job practice domain. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Mar 2020
ITOps security requires attention to training
Becoming fluent about IT security is critically important for numerous aspects of ITOps, yet many organizations fail to train their ITOps staff in security. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Feb 2020
Good cybersecurity thesis topics for a master's degree
Writing a master's thesis? A strong topic positions you for academic and professional success, while a weak one promises to make an already intensive process arduous at best. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jan 2020
The who, what, why -- and challenges -- of CISM certification
Think you're ready for the CISM certification exam? Peter Gregory, author of CISM: Certified Information Security Manager Practice Exams, has some pointers for you. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Nov 2019
What is the role of CISO in network security?
The role of CISO in network security goes beyond risk management. It also requires understanding compliance regulations and business needs, as well as the ability to communicate security policies to nontechnical employees. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Nov 2019
4 innovative ways to remedy the cybersecurity skills gap
Learn how companies should adapt to hire, recruit and retain top-notch employees during the current cybersecurity workforce shortage. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2019
A cybersecurity skills gap demands thinking outside the box
Today's security team shortages can't be filled using yesterday's thinking. Learn what other IT security leaders are doing to plug the skills gap and keep their organization safe. Continue Reading
- 01 Nov 2019
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Infographic
01 Nov 2019
Enterprises feel the pain of cybersecurity staff shortages
It's hard enough keeping up with today's threats on a good day. But when your IT organization is spread thin, especially in terms of cybersecurity staff, the challenges mount. Continue Reading
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News
16 Sep 2019
DerbyCon attendees and co-founder reflect on the end
DerbyCon attendees and co-founder Dave Kennedy reflect on the legacy and future of the conference following its final event, which took place in Louisville, Ky. Continue Reading
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Quiz
16 Sep 2019
Test your infosec smarts about IAM and other key subjects
Solidify your knowledge and get CPE credits by taking this quiz on IAM, security frameworks, IoT third-party risks and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Aug 2019
Varied options to solving the cybersecurity skills shortage
There are no easy answers for the cybersecurity skills shortage facing the industry, other than working harder to diversify and expand the workforce, according to ESG's Jon Oltsik. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Aug 2019
How to navigate the often challenging CISO career path
There's no clear-cut path to becoming a CISO. However, the right security certifications, an ever-questioning attitude and a strong network of CISO peers can help prepare you for the journey. Continue Reading
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News
28 Aug 2019
Breaking into cybersecurity careers through nontraditional paths
Some DEF CON attendees discussed their nontraditional paths into cybersecurity and how networking and being eager to learn can bridge the gap between experience and job requirements. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Aug 2019
For board of directors, cybersecurity literacy is essential
For boards of directors to meet their business goals, CISOs need a seat at the table. Through her initiative BoardSuited, Joyce Brocaglia aims to pave the way. Continue Reading
- 01 Aug 2019
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Feature
30 Jul 2019
Digital transformation redefines cybersecurity skills, careers
The move toward digital business processes has forced companies to reconsider how they find cybersecurity talent, but finding the right skills may be easier than CISOs think. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2019
How to pass the CISSP exam on your first try: Tips to get a good score
Want to become a CISSP? Here's everything you need to know, such as how difficult the exam is, tips for studying, what's needed to obtain a passing score and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Jul 2019
Portrait of a CISO: Roles and responsibilities
Success in the role of CISO requires security experts to wear many hats. Couple that with changes in compliance regulations and sophisticated cyberthreats, and CISOs are left with a full plate. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jun 2019
Gartner: Cybersecurity skills shortage requires a new approach
At the Gartner Security and Risk Management Summit, analysts discuss the challenge of finding skilled cybersecurity professionals and how it can be solved. Continue Reading
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News
10 May 2019
Effects of cybersecurity skills shortage worsening, new study says
The cybersecurity skills shortage is putting businesses at risk in a variety of ways, according to a new study. Experts suggest ways to combat the problem. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2019
Study: Cybersecurity professionals taking on more data privacy duties
At the SecureWorld Boston conference, ISSA unveils data that shows cybersecurity professionals are taking on more data privacy duties. Experts sound off on what it signifies. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Feb 2019
CISO tackles banking cybersecurity and changing roles
Over the course of his career in security, Thomas Hill has held varied positions that inform his views on both technological specifics and strategic roles in modern corporations. Continue Reading
- 01 Feb 2019
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News
19 Oct 2018
(ISC)2: Cybersecurity workforce shortage nears 3 million worldwide
With a workforce in short supply, the skills gap has affected the professional growth of security pros worldwide, an (ISC)2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study found. Continue Reading
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News
09 Oct 2018
At (ISC)² Security Congress 2018, a congressman calls for action
Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-La.) outlined three key strategies for addressing cybersecurity policy and workforce gaps. Continue Reading
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News
08 Oct 2018
(ISC)² Security Congress 2018 tackles industry challenges
Professional development will take center stage this week at the eighth annual (ISC)² Security Congress. Continue Reading
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Opinion
02 Oct 2018
Kurt Huhn discusses the role of CISO in the Ocean State
A strategy focused on widespread training and education leads to progress against one of the state's biggest threats, says the Rhode Island CISO. Continue Reading
- 02 Oct 2018
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News
14 Aug 2018
Amanda Rousseau on becoming a cybersecurity researcher
Cybersecurity researcher Amanda Rousseau discusses the relationship between the infosec community and law enforcement and how to create the next generation of white hat hackers. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Aug 2018
Fannie Mae CISO calls for more data on security incidents
Chris Porter's years as a lead analyst and author of Verizon's Data Breach Investigations Report helped prepare him for the chief of security role at the primary housing lender. Continue Reading
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Survey
01 Aug 2018
Not enough information security analysts, despite higher wages
Survey data on global skills shortages does not show significant changes, even as companies turn to strategies such as security automation to make security teams more efficient. Continue Reading
- 27 Jul 2018
- 27 Jul 2018
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Feature
19 Jul 2018
Endgame's Devon Kerr on what it takes to be a threat hunter
Threat hunting goes beyond mere monitoring and detection. Endgame's Devon Kerr explains tomorrow's threat hunters and the keys to successful cyberthreat hunting. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Jun 2018
Walmart's Jerry Geisler on the CISO position, retail challenges
A global CISO in charge of one of the world's largest cybersecurity programs got his start on the retail floor. He's arrived just in time for the digital transformation. Continue Reading
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News
31 May 2018
New Walmart CISO discusses protecting the world's largest retailer
Walmart CISO Jerry Geisler talks about the retail giant's evolving cloud strategy, vulnerability management and risks the company is focused on across its environments. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 May 2018
McAfee CISO explains why diversity in cybersecurity matters
Improving diversity in cybersecurity teams can help improve their ability to address cybersecurity challenges through diversity of thought, suggests McAfee CISO Grant Bourzikas. Continue Reading
- 29 May 2018
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News
23 Apr 2018
Women in cybersecurity discuss hiring, advice and being mentors
A panel of women cybersecurity professionals at the RSA Conference discussed ways to find the best job candidates, the best advice they've received and how to be better mentors. Continue Reading
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Opinion
03 Apr 2018
Healthcare CISO: 'Hygiene and patching take you a long way'
Cybersecurity and healthcare can get along, according to CISO Joey Johnson, who leads the security program at Premise Health, but it takes patience and attention to the details. Continue Reading
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Report
03 Apr 2018
CISO survey paints a grim picture: Weak staff, breach fears
Roughly 60% of CISOs expect phishing scams, malware disruptions and cyberattacks that cause 'significant downtime' to affect their company in 2018. Continue Reading
- 30 Mar 2018
- 30 Mar 2018
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Answer
30 Mar 2018
Do CISOs need computer science degrees?
Equifax's CISO came under fire for having a music degree. David Shearer, CEO of (ISC)2, discusses what type of education infosec professionals should have. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Mar 2018
CPE for CISSP: Top 10 ways to master continuing education
Who says you can't have fun while earning CPE credits to maintain your CISSP certification? Check out the top 10 creative ways to meet CISSP continuing education requirements. Continue Reading
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News
23 Mar 2018
CSO Stamos leaving Facebook, according to reports
News roundup: Is Alex Stamos leaving Facebook? The CSO hasn't confirmed, but reports say yes. Plus, an Orbitz breach exposed the payment card data of 880,000 people, and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2018
Becoming a cybersecurity professional: What are the options?
A cybersecurity professional has several options for their career path. Expert Ernie Hayden reviews the cybersecurity career track options and what skills are required for each one. Continue Reading
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News
09 Mar 2018
OURSA takes on RSA Conference to highlight diversity
News roundup: Our Security Advocates emerges amid criticism of RSA Conference's lack of female keynote speakers. Plus, a kill switch is discovered for the Memcrashed DDoS exploit, and more. Continue Reading
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Security School
21 Feb 2018
CISSP Domain 8: Software development security explained
If you're studying for the CISSP exam, don't miss this special Security School on Domain 8. Review important concepts in software development security and sharpen your skills. Continue Reading
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Quiz
21 Feb 2018
Domain 8: Security in software development lifecycle quiz
Understanding the ins and outs of the software development lifecycle is pivotal to passing Domain 8 of the CISSP exam. Are you ready? Find out with this practice quiz. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Feb 2018
Use software forensics to uncover the identity of attackers
By analyzing the proverbial fingerprints of malicious software -- its program code -- infosec pros can gain meaningful insights into an attacker's intent and identity. Continue Reading
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Security School
13 Feb 2018
CISSP Domain 7: Security operations
Learn about important cybersecurity techniques and technologies that serve as the foundation of both day-to-day security operations and incident response. Continue Reading
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Quiz
13 Feb 2018
Get ready for CISSP Domain 7: Cyberattack prevention quiz
Do you know what it takes to stop bad guys in their tracks? Find out with this practice quiz on cybersecurity methods and tools used to thwart or recover from an attack. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Feb 2018
What are the root causes of the cybersecurity skills shortage?
SearchSecurity talks with David Shearer, CEO of (ISC)2, about what is -- and isn't -- contributing to the cybersecurity skills shortage in the U.S., as well as how to fix the problem. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Feb 2018
Information security certification guide: Specialized certifications
This information security certification guide looks at vendor-neutral certifications in specialized areas such as risk management, security auditing and secure programming. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2018
Fight a targeted cyberattack with network segmentation, monitoring
It takes a variety of tactics, including network segmenting and monitoring, to safeguard the network. Learn the latest defenses to keep your network safe. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Feb 2018
Fred Cohen on strategic security: 'Start with the assumptions'
Cohen is a globally recognized expert in information protection and cybersecurity. Since coining the term 'computer virus,' he has remained a pioneer in information assurance. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Feb 2018
David Neuman: The CISO position and keeping the cloud safe
The Rackspace CISO joined the enlisted ranks in the Air Force, eventually becoming an officer with global responsibilities before moving to the private sector. Continue Reading
- 31 Jan 2018
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Tip
30 Jan 2018
Information security certification guide: Forensics
This information security certificate guide looks at vendor-neutral computer forensics certifications for IT professionals interested in cyber attribution and investigations. Continue Reading
- 26 Jan 2018
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Tip
26 Jan 2018
Information security certification guide: Advanced level
Part three of this information security certification guide looks at vendor-neutral advanced security certifications for more experienced IT professionals. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Dec 2017
Information security certification guide: Intermediate level
Part two of this information security certificate guide looks at vendor-neutral intermediate certifications for IT professionals interested in midlevel positions. Continue Reading
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Security School
19 Dec 2017
CISSP Domain 6: The importance of security assessments and testing
Security assessment and testing should be baked into your regular IT workflows so that you’re able to spot software vulnerabilities before they turn into full-blown attacks. Continue Reading
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Quiz
18 Dec 2017
CISSP Domain 6 quiz: Vulnerabilities in software
Domain 6 of the CISSP exam tests how well you understand the security assessment and testing strategies needed to recognize, prevent and remedy vulnerabilities in software. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2017
Prevent attacks with these security testing techniques
Software bugs are more than a nuisance. Errors can expose vulnerabilities. Here’s the good news: These security testing tools and techniques can help you avoid them. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2017
Information security certifications: Introductory level
This series looks at the top information security certifications for IT professionals. Part one reviews basic, vendor-neutral certifications for entry-level positions. Continue Reading
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Security School
11 Dec 2017
CISSP Domain 5: Cloud identity management and access control
From cloud identity and access management to physical access control, this study guide will help you review key concepts from Domain 5 of the CISSP exam. Continue Reading
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Quiz
08 Dec 2017
CISSP Domain 5 quiz: Types of access control systems
Get ready for the CISSP exam with this 10-question practice quiz covering key concepts in Domain 5, including access control, identity, authentication and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Dec 2017
John Germain lands the new CISO position at Duck Creek
Serving the technology needs of the property and casualty insurance industry means keeping a weathered eye on risk profiles, enterprise software and emerging threats. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Dec 2017
What's with cybersecurity education? We ask Blaine Burnham
When he left the NSA, Burnham helped build the security education and research programs at the Georgia Institute of Technology and other universities. What did he learn? Continue Reading
- 29 Nov 2017
- 28 Nov 2017
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Tip
20 Nov 2017
How to prevent password attacks and other exploits
Prevention is essential to protection against various types of password attacks, unauthorized access and related threats. Expert Adam Gordon outlines how to proactively bolster your defenses. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Nov 2017
From the White House to IBM Watson technology with Phyllis Schneck
The managing director at Promontory Financial Group, now part of IBM, talks about supercomputers, cryptography applications and her start in computer science. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2017
Transitioning to the role of CISO: Dr. Alissa Johnson
Serving as White House deputy CIO prepared Johnson for her CISO role: "When we let the culture in a company or agency drive security governance or innovation, that's a problem." Continue Reading
- 30 Oct 2017
- 30 Oct 2017
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Answer
26 Oct 2017
What's the best career path to get CISSP certified?
The CISSP certification can be a challenge to obtain. Mike Rothman unveils how to get on the right education and career tracks in order to get CISSP certified. Continue Reading
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Quiz
09 Oct 2017
CISSP Domain 4 quiz: Network security basics
Think you know network security basics inside and out? Take this 10-question quiz to find out how well you’ve prepared for Domain 4 of the CISSP exam. Continue Reading
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Security School
09 Oct 2017
CISSP Domain 4: Communications and network security
Brush up on network security fundamentals like segmentation and secure routing in this CISSP exam study guide for Domain 4, Communication and Network Security. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Oct 2017
The CISO job seems to be finally getting the credit it's due
The CISO job has risen from the trenches of the IT department to a seat at the C-suite decision-makers' table. But time in the spotlight comes with great risk and responsibilities. Continue Reading
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E-Zine
04 Oct 2017
What does a CISO do now? It's a changing, increasingly vital role
What does a CISO do in this day and age? The responsibilities of a chief information security officer, the senior executive responsible for an organization's information security program, are growing dramatically. Once relegated to the IT department -- if there was a designated corporate role at all -- the CISO is now often a member of the C-suite team, working alongside the CIO and others, formulating information security strategy and policy with an eye on both security and the business bottom line.
As the volume and sophistication of cyberattacks expand and corporate liability grows -- threatening profits and displeasing shareholders -- CISOs are now tasked with making tough decisions on how tools, systems and training are best used to manage risk. This quarterly supplement to Information Security magazine looks at the state of the CISO role -- how it's changed, where it's heading and what it takes to become an effective CISO in terms of cybersecurity skills, staff support and education.
Continue Reading - 04 Oct 2017
- 03 Oct 2017
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Feature
02 Oct 2017
Agnes Kirk on the role of CISO, Washington's state of mind
A state CISO champions innovation for Washington, from early development of a single sign-on system to leadership of the new Office of Cyber Security. Continue Reading
- 28 Sep 2017
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Quiz
12 Sep 2017
CISSP Domain 3 quiz: Security engineering
In preparing for Domain 3, Security Engineering, CISSP candidates should review a wide range of concepts, from security models to cryptography systems. Continue Reading
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Security School
12 Sep 2017
CISSP Domain 3: Security systems engineering
Planning to take the CISSP exam? Brush up on essential concepts and vocabulary in security systems engineering, covered in Domain 3, in this Security School. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Aug 2017
Cryptography attacks: The ABCs of ciphertext exploits
Encryption is used to protect data from peeping eyes, making cryptographic systems an attractive target for attackers. Here are 18 types of cryptography attacks to watch out for. Continue Reading
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Quiz
17 Aug 2017
CISSP Domain 2 quiz: Data security control, asset protection
Domain 2 of the CISSP exam, known as asset security, covers data security control, classification, ownership and more. Test your knowledge with this 10-question practice quiz. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Aug 2017
Interfacing with an information technology entrepreneur
E. Kelly Fitzsimmons started with coconuts and then sold four companies. A serial entrepreneur discusses security and technology startups and why embracing failure works. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Aug 2017
Deborah Wheeler lands role of CISO at Delta Air Lines
The new CISO at Delta Air Lines earned her wings by sticking with security from the start. As the airline industry faces new challenges, Deborah Wheeler takes on a leadership role. Continue Reading
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Security School
26 Jul 2017
CISSP Domain 1: Cybersecurity and risk management
Partner with business leaders and apply information security management principles to best address enterprise governance, risk management and compliance needs. Continue Reading