Bridging the Cybersecurity Skills Gap – Infosec 2023

Last week, Libra Careers attended the impressive Infosecurity Europe 2023 Conference at ExCel London. With over 370 exhibitors coming from all over the world, we met with and heard from cybersecurity experts and industry professionals. There were also a series of panel discussions throughout the day covering several key topics and trends within the industry. Here we digest our highlights and key learns from the event.??

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Cyber Threats:?

A key topic discussed was the ever-evolving potential for threats within the industry. Ransomware, cyber-attacks, and other criminal activity have created widespread challenges for cyber defenders. Global Cyber Strategy Lead of Accenture Valerie Abend joined an insightful panel in delivering a discussion on “Outsmarting Cyber Criminals.”??

The panel shared valuable practical experience. They highlighted the importance of addressing cybersecurity and shared innovative tactics of dealing with different examples of cyber-attacks.?

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Fighting AI with AI:?

The ever-growing involvement of AI and machine learning in everyday life has brought with it much debate. It is evident that AI can have its benefits. Within cybersecurity, it can give defenders the edge. However, it does in turn pose threats in the form of malware, fishing schemes and other dangers from attackers.??

?We spoke with representatives from various companies to discuss their main struggles and ways in which they mitigate AI risks. In order to do so, some companies have been implementing AI expertise to counteract these risks. Blackberry’s Cylance AI is an example of how AI can be used to combat cybersecurity risks.?

Cybersecurity’s Achilles Heel:?

Long discussed is the current state of the cybersecurity talent pool, which was described as the ‘The Achilles’ Heel’ of the industry. Commentators and key players have often cited to shortages of skilled professionals in the field, and companies have long pondered over suitable strategies to source and retain the relevant talent for their teams.?

The Cyber Pathways Framework from the UK Cyber Security Council has been welcomed by leaders in the industry to bridge this gap. The framework will cover 16 different sub-sectors in the industry to provide transparency between organisations and candidates and what is needed for certain roles.?

If you struggle with hiring and retaining the right talent, get in touch with Libra Careers to see how we differ from your traditional recruitment agency.?

Written by: Fionn White

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