The amount of data is growing exponentially and with it the need to protect it from theft or loss through cyber-attacks. Vast amounts of data are now stored on the cloud allowing access from anywhere in the world, on any device, and the ability to share and collaborate with work colleagues, family, and friends. Not only must data in the cloud be secured, but with the increase in hybrid working, data on devices and apps that connect to the Internet also need to be protected. It is estimated that up to ninety percent of all successful ransomware attacks are made on devices that are not managed under a company’s security policy yet would be used to connect to data in the cloud.

Cybercrime is increasing. Under EU regulations companies are legally required to notify if a data breach compromises confidentiality. If the security breach results in a high risk to individuals, such as a patient’s health information, the person must also be informed.

It is imperative that companies secure their data as a cyberattack can have serious consequences. Apart from affecting critical systems and the risk of identity theft, there is a financial and reputational cost. Companies need to keep up to date, assessing security risks and ensuring they comply with ever changing regulations. Cyber threats are evolving apace. Although many attempts at cyberattacks are blocked, there are increasing instances of ransomware attacks on individuals and businesses.

In response to these threats, experts from Ireland and the EU, as part of the EuroQCI project, are collaborating on using quantum technology, which has the power to create unbreakable encryption,to ensure the security of data and communications in Ireland.

Cyber Ireland, the industry representative body, stated in their recent report that Ireland is building a global reputation for innovation in cybersecurity. The number of jobs has trebled over the last few years with an estimated 10,000 new jobs forecast by 2030.

Cybersecurity has one of the fastest rates of growth in IT. With a severe shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals, there are tremendous opportunities to work or upskill in this field. Cybersecurity professionals will typically have studied computer science, maths, IT or a related discipline. However there are many routes to enter the sector. For further information check out Careers in Cybersecurity, How to get a Career in Cybersecurity and search for courses here.

As well as Cybersecurity there are multiple pathways to join the IT sector where there are skills shortages. These options include:

• FIT Tech Apprenticeships where you learn and earn, are open to school leavers or those who wish to upskill or retrain. Further information available here.
• ICT Skillnet offers free and subsidised training, part-time & online, in critical technology skills. Further information available here.
• Springboard Courses offer free and heavily subsidised courses, including ICT skills conversion courses, to address skills shortages. Further information is available here.
• Further information on careers in Data Centres is available here

Employment in ICT has increased by a third in Ireland, to a new high of 174,000. Any of the routes described above will give you the opportunity to work in this dynamic, thriving sector which offers excellent opportunities for career advancement.