The Future of Information Security: Trends and Courses

There’s a cyber war raging in Ireland. Around 70% of Irish businesses suffered a cyberattack in 2023. That’s a 22% increase in recent years, and financial losses are soaring into the millions. 

Businesses are facing an onslaught of threats, such as ransomware, data breaches, phishing scams, sophisticated hacking – the list goes on. The need for cybersecurity professionals has never been higher.

If you’ve been hoping to pursue a career in information security, this is your chance. Whether you’re a beginner in the industry or a professional hoping to expand your skill set, the right cybersecurity course will give you the boost you need.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the cybersecurity landscape of Ireland—its trends, challenges, and opportunities for aspiring information security professionals like you.

Key Trends in Information Security

Artificial Intelligence

When it comes to cybersecurity and information security, AI is a double-edged sword. 

On the one hand, it's giving security teams all the sophisticated tools they need for threat detection, analysis, and response. Machine learning algorithms can rapidly sift through vast amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies that could signal an incoming cyberattack.

Plus, AI-powered systems can automate routine security tasks, freeing up human analysts to focus on what matters. That’s exactly why 50% of Irish companies plan to deploy AI by the end of this year.

Then, there’s the more concerning aspect of AI. Cybercriminals are now relying on AI to develop more sophisticated attacks, such as AI-generated phishing emails that are even harder to detect. 

But that doesn’t mean AI-facilitated cybercrime is unbeatable. The new generation of cybersecurity professionals is well-versed in AI skills and machine learning, which they can use to anticipate and defend against cybercrime. That also explains why educational institutions in Ireland are prioritizing AI cybersecurity courses more than ever.

Quantum Computing

Quantum computing has the incredible potential to transform many fields, especially cybersecurity. While still in its early stages, quantum computers could eventually break the encryption algorithms that make up much of our digital security. That means the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data is seriously at risk. 

Plus, projects like the recent €16.5m investment in making quantum computers faster and cheaper are even more concerning. With this technology becoming accessible to everyone, quantum computing-facilitated cybercrime will eventually skyrocket. 

To prepare for this, researchers are exploring quantum-resistant cryptography. That involves developing new encryption algorithms to combat quantum computers. Ireland’s educational institutes are also offering specialized courses in quantum computing and cryptography to prepare future cybersecurity professionals for this threat.

Evolving Cyber Threats

Cyber threats in Ireland are becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect every day. Around 59.2% of Irish businesses have reported being victim to such threats in the past year.

Ransomware attacks, where hackers encrypt a victim's data and demand payment for its release, continue to plague Irish businesses. In 2021, the HSE suffered a major ransomware attack, which caused all of its IT systems nationwide to be shut down. The attackers demanded a ransom of €16.5 million, but the Irish government refused to pay. Not only did it compromise confidential medical and corporate documents, but some of the data was also posted online. 

Around 65% of these ransomware attacks started out as mere phishing scams, where attackers trick victims into revealing sensitive information. Cybercriminals are also starting to target critical infrastructure, such as energy grids and healthcare systems. It’s safe to say there’s a serious threat to public safety and national security in Ireland.

Continuous education and training are essential to combating these cyber threats. Information security courses and certifications can help cybersecurity professionals stay up-to-date with the latest attack techniques and defense strategies.

Skills Gap in Cybersecurity

Ireland is in the middle of a technological revolution, which has created a major skills gap in the cybersecurity industry. There is a quickly increasing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals who can design, implement, and manage robust security systems. However, there aren’t enough qualified candidates to fill these roles.

In a recent survey, 79% of Irish companies reported difficulty recruiting cybersecurity talent. This skills gap has left organizations vulnerable to cyberattacks. Here’s your opening: investing in a short cybersecurity course can give you the certification you need to be a qualified candidate.

Overview of Cybersecurity Courses in Ireland 

Ireland has a robust and diverse cybersecurity education landscape. From undergraduate degrees to specialized master's programmes and professional certifications, students pursuing cybersecurity and information security definitely aren’t short of options.

Those who are just stepping into the cybersecurity field can boost their chances of pursuing a career with the help of cybersecurity courses. These courses are easy to qualify for, highly informative, and help you acquire certifications like:

• CompTIA Security+ Certification: This is an entry-level certification for foundational knowledge of cyber threats, security architecture, and design. It’s the number one cybersecurity certification worldwide, with over 700,000 certification holders. 

  This certification opens doors for roles like Systems Administrator, Network Administrator, or Information Security Analyst. Most importantly, it meets ISO 17024 standards and the Department of Defense’s Directive 8570.01-M requirements.

• EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Certification: This focuses on practical network security and threat management, preparing you for roles like Security Analyst and Penetration Tester.

  The exam requires two years of previous information security experience without approved training. As a CEH holder in Ireland, you may be able to make €48,000 a year.

• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) Certification: It focuses on information security audits and is widely recognised in Ireland. It can help you fill managerial positions in the information security sector. CISA holders have information security governance, risk management, and incident management skills.

Ireland’s educational institutions also offer many industry-led training courses focusing on specific technologies or skill sets. These courses offer hands-on training and practical experience – perfect for professionals looking to upskill or specialize in a particular area of cybersecurity.

If you’re not sure about investing in cybersecurity or information security courses, here’s what you need to know: the demand for cybersecurity skills in Ireland is soaring. As cyber threats get more sophisticated and hard to combat, Irish companies scramble to find certified professionals to protect their databases. 

A recent report by Cyber Ireland estimates that there are currently over 6,700 unfilled cybersecurity positions in Ireland. This demand will only grow in the coming years, and this is your opportunity to pursue a fruitful career in the industry.

UCD Professional Academy Diploma in Cybersecurity

The UCD Professional Academy Diploma in Cybersecurity is a premier choice for those seeking comprehensive, industry-relevant cybersecurity education in Ireland. 

This 3-month part-time course is designed to equip you with all the skills and knowledge needed to excel in Ireland’s cybersecurity sector. Here are some key highlights of this course:

• Firstly, the curriculum is incredibly comprehensive. The course covers a diverse range of cybersecurity topics, including network security, ethical hacking, risk management, and incident response.

• Instead of catering to generic, global trends, the content is relevant to Ireland’s cybersecurity. The curriculum is regularly updated to focus on the latest trends and threats in Ireland's cybersecurity landscape.

• The UCD Professional Academy faculty is highly experienced. The course is taught by experienced and certified cybersecurity professionals with extensive industry experience.

• Students at UCD Professional Academy enjoy a practical learning experience. Learners gain hands-on experience through practical exercises, simulations, and real-world case studies.

Detailed Course Breakdown 

The UCD Professional Academy Diploma in Cybersecurity is designed to equip you with all the knowledge and skills to excel in the cybersecurity sector of Ireland. Although this course covers everything a beginner needs to know, it also gives professionals the certifications they need to advance their careers. 

Course Structure

Our live online learning lectures promise a dynamic and engaging learning experience. Students will learn from seasoned cybersecurity experts, participate in stimulating discussions, and gain insights from real-world case studies. 

You'll have chances to ask questions, share your experiences, and learn from the different perspectives of your peers.

Comprehensive Curriculum

Over 12 intensive weeks, you'll learn everything you need to know about the core principles of cybersecurity, including:

• Cryptography: Encryption algorithms and their role in safeguarding sensitive data.

• Network Security: Network architectures, vulnerabilities, and the strategies employed to fortify them against intrusions.

• Ethical Hacking: White-hat hacking – identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities before malicious actors do.

• Incident Response: Security breaches response, damage control, and recovery.

• Risk Management: Identifying, analysing, and mitigating risks to protect your organisation's critical assets.

• Emerging Technologies: The impact of AI, quantum computing, and cloud security on the cybersecurity landscape.

Practical Skills & Hands-On Experience

The course goes beyond theoretical knowledge – you’ll also learn practical skills that will be directly applicable to real-world scenarios. Through hands-on exercises and simulations, you'll gain experience in:

• Penetration Testing: Simulating cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in systems.

• Digital Forensics: Investigating security incidents and gathering evidence to understand the extent of a breach.

• Open Source Intelligence (OSINT): Utilizing publicly available information to gather valuable insights for security investigations.

• Social Engineering: Understanding the tactics used by attackers to manipulate individuals and how to defend against them.

Who Should Enrol?

UCD Professional Academy Diploma in Cybersecurity isn’t restricted to one type of student – it’s perfect for 

• Professionals from other fields who are looking to transition into a cybersecurity career. 

• Professionals working in IT roles who want to specialize in cybersecurity and protect digital assets.

• Leaders who want to make informed security decisions for their organizations.

• Entrepreneurs who want to understand the cyber threats posed to their businesses.

• Graduates who want to enhance their employability with the help of in-demand cybersecurity skills.

Career Opportunities and Progression 

The UCD Professional Academy Diploma in Cybersecurity opens the door to a thriving field in Ireland, allowing you to pursue career paths such as:

• Security analysis, where you’ll monitor and analyze security systems, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend solutions.

• Penetration testing, where you’ll stimulate cyberattacks to test the strength of an organization's security measures.

• Security consultancy, where you’ll advise organizations on cybersecurity strategies and best practices.

• Security engineering, where you’ll design, implement, and maintain security systems and infrastructure.

• Security architecture, where you’ll develop and implement comprehensive security frameworks for organizations.

• Incidents response, where you’ll lead the retaliation to security breaches and minimize damage.

  More importantly, the UCD Professional Academy Diploma in Cybersecurity equips you with three key skill sets that are highly valued by employers in Ireland's cybersecurity sector.

• Risk Assessment and Management: The skill to identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks.

• Threat Landscape Awareness: Understanding the latest cyber threats and attack vectors.

• Incident Response and Forensic Analysis: The ability to respond swiftly and effectively to security incidents.

Conclusion

As Ireland’s cyber threat issues get more sophisticated and harder to combat, the demand for cybersecurity professionals gets higher than ever. Don't let the opportunity to pursue a cybersecurity career slip away.

The UCD Professional Academy Diploma in Cybersecurity will give you a kickstart into a rewarding and impactful career. By the end of it, you’ll have all the skills you need to outsmart cybercriminals, protect valuable data, and secure the digital landscape in Ireland.

Visit the UCD Professional Academy Resources today to learn more.