It Training Takes Center Stage As Hacktivist And State-sponsored Cyber-attacks Increase

By Author: Peter Martin
Total Articles: 211
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Over the last year, the worst fears of IT security professionals have come true. Hacktivism and state sponsored cyber-attacks are on the rise. All major countries of the world have witnessed hacking attacks on computer systems, networks and websites of key government and industrial facilities. Generally, the purpose behind attacks by cybercriminals is to steal money or authentication credentials. On the other hand, hacktivists initiate attacks to convey their agitation or serve their political interests. The purpose behind state-sponsored cyber-attacks is to gather information related to military strategy, key installations and confidential government reports. As such, state-sponsored cyber-attacks are more dangerous and pose threat to national security.

The last few decades have witnessed massive computerization in both developed and developing countries. The Internet revolution facilitated creation and maintenance of online records and databases. Ironically, while Internet has added to the convenience of individuals, businesses and governments, it has also created a platform for information warfare. Hackers can explore ...
... and exploit the security loopholes on websites, computer networks and systems to gain access to privileged and classified databases. Human errors such as use of common passwords for web applications and databases, providing Internet access to systems containing privileged documents, programming errors, non-adherence to security updates are some of the major causes for security lapses.
Therefore, it is important for government agencies and organizations to devise a regular penetration testing training, network security training and security audit training programs.

Universities and schools may also collaborate with industry associations and IT security firms to devise IT security courses and distance learning programs to meet the future requirements of cyber security experts.