Intelligent CIO Europe Issue 17 | Page 55

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// FEATURE: SKILLS AND TRAINING back to school to protect Going UK businesses from cybercriminals As technology develops, cyber incidents are inevitably becoming more and more common, so it’s crucial to promote the cybersecurity industry as lucrative and rewarding. According to James Lyne, Head of Research and Development, SANS Institute, schools should be going the extra mile to immerse and educate pupils in the world of cyber. T he UK is currently on the brink of a cybersecurity skills crisis, one that will ultimately affect the security and success of its digital economy. The UK is positioning itself as a digital innovator and leader in all things technological in an increasingly technology-driven global economy. However, UK businesses are still being caught out when it comes to cybersecurity. This is heavily influenced by the ongoing lack of cybersecurity talent available to help keep the data, infrastructure and people safe within those businesses. Along with the funding of technologies such as 5G, robotics and AI – a continued and renewed importance must be placed on protecting the national digital infrastructure. This means an ongoing focus on educating those in the workplace about their responsibilities regarding security, but also educating the next generation about IT security, as well as promoting the area as a lucrative, rewarding, but also critical career option. There remains, however, a large amount of work to be done. Recent research conducted by SANS showed that only 11.5% of UK 14 – 18-year-olds are aware of job opportunities in the cybersecurity sector, www.intelligentcio.com INTELLIGENTCIO 55