In a quiet computer laboratory, a group of students are deeply engrossed in a battle against a bug that threatens to breach their network’s firewall. These students, training to become ethical hackers, are facing off against their lecturers who are launching simulated attacks as part of a cybersecurity lesson on ethical hacking.
The need for such training is crucial, especially with the rise in cyberattacks globally. According to UCSI Institute of Computer Science and Digital Innovation director Assistant Prof Dr Raenu Kolandaisamy, the number of cyberattacks in Malaysia alone has grown from 28,000 in 2022 to 26 million in 2023. These attacks primarily target sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government.
To combat these threats, Malaysia is in dire need of a strong talent pool of ethical hackers, as emphasized by Cyber Security Malaysia (CSM) chief executive officer Datuk Dr Amirudin Abdul Wahab. He highlights the importance of proactively identifying vulnerabilities to prevent threat actors from exploiting them, emphasizing the critical role of cybersecurity in national security and attracting foreign investment.
The increase in demand for cybersecurity experts is evident, with a rise in certified professionals holding credentials such as EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification. This trend aligns with the growing interest in ethical hacking as a career choice, supported by national cybersecurity initiatives and training programs.
Ethical hackers play a vital role in identifying and patching security weaknesses before cybercriminals can exploit them. Dr. Julia Juremi from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) stresses the importance of ethical hackers in safeguarding businesses, government agencies, and individuals from data breaches and fraud.
Different categories of hacking, including white hat hacking, black hat hacking, and grey hat hacking, demonstrate the various motivations behind hacking activities. White hat hacking, conducted by ethical hackers, aims to strengthen security by identifying and fixing vulnerabilities, whereas black hat hacking involves illegal activities with malicious intent.
Aspiring ethical hackers can pursue degrees in cybersecurity or obtain certifications such as CEH, Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Practical experience is also essential, with institutions like UCSI offering specialized courses to train cybersecurity experts.
The importance of soft skills, ethical integrity, and technical prowess are emphasized by experts like Assoc Prof Dr Aznul Qalid Md Sabri from Universiti Malaya. In the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, skills in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning play a crucial role in combating sophisticated cyber threats.
Looking ahead, Malaysia is gearing up for its new cybersecurity strategy document, set to launch in July. The focus remains on embedding cybersecurity principles across various disciplines and sectors to enhance the country’s cybersecurity readiness. The establishment of the Malaysia Cyber Security Academy seeks to address the shortage of skilled professionals in the field, aligning with the goal of building a robust cybersecurity workforce by 2025.
In conclusion, the realm of ethical hacking is evolving rapidly, presenting both challenges and opportunities for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. With the right training, skills, and mindset, ethical hackers can make a significant impact in safeguarding digital assets and combating cyber threats in an increasingly interconnected world.