When it comes to cybersecurity, technologists are the frontline warriors, divided into two primary camps: the Red Team and the Blue Team. These individuals are critical in assessing and fortifying your digital defenses. However, with the term “Cyber Security Professional” being unprotected, it’s crucial to identify qualified and capable technologists. Here are some important factors to consider when evaluating a cybersecurity technologist.
Experience and Specialization
Red Team (Offensive Security)
Years of Experience: Look for individuals with a substantial background in offensive cybersecurity. Typically, a minimum of 3-5 years of experience is desirable.
Role Proficiency: Experience in conducting penetration tests, vulnerability assessments, and simulated cyber attacks is crucial.
Blue Team (Defensive Security)
Years of Experience: Similar to the Red Team, aim for professionals with at least 3-5 years of experience in defensive cybersecurity roles.
Role Proficiency: Expertise in network security, incident response, and the implementation of security controls is key.
Public Portfolio and Community Involvement
Public GitHub Account: A public GitHub account can provide insights into their technical skills, contributions to security projects, and overall involvement in the cybersecurity community.
Participation in Capture The Flag (CTF) Events: Engagement in CTFs and other cybersecurity competitions showcases a technologist’s problem-solving skills and up-to-date knowledge of the latest security challenges. You’ll find many technologists care more about learning and improving than public accolades, however CTFs provide them personal accomplishment.
Certifications
While certifications are not the sole indicator of a technologist’s abilities, they do provide a standardized measure of their skills and knowledge.
Practical Certifications:
For Red Team professionals, look for certifications like the OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional). This certification is known for its rigorous, hands-on testing approach and is highly respected in the industry.
Relevant Blue Team Certifications:
For those in defensive roles, certifications like CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) can be indicators of a solid foundation in cybersecurity principles and practices.
Continuous Learning and Adaptability
Cybersecurity is a field that is constantly evolving. Technologists who demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning, either through ongoing education or self-guided learning, are more likely to stay abreast of the latest trends and threats.
Up-to-Date Knowledge: Look for indications that they are keeping up with current cybersecurity trends, techniques, and threats.
Adaptability: The ability to adapt to new technologies and changing threat landscapes is crucial.
Evaluating a Cybersecurity Technologist
When evaluating a cybersecurity technologist, consider the following checklist:
Experience: Verify their years of experience and the depth of their role-specific skills.
- Public Work: Review their GitHub or other public repositories for hands-on work.
- Community Engagement: Check for involvement in CTFs or cybersecurity forums.
- Certifications: Look for relevant and practical certifications that align with their role.
- Learning and Adaptability: Assess their commitment to staying current in the field.
Conclusion
Selecting the right cybersecurity technologist requires a thorough evaluation of their experience, qualifications, and ongoing engagement in the cybersecurity field. Whether it’s for offensive or defensive purposes, the right professional will not only have the necessary technical skills and certifications but also a demonstrated commitment to continuous learning and adapting in this dynamic field.
