The cybersecurity workforce continues to struggle with worker shortages. Now, the government is working to fill in the gaps.
What happened
Nextgov/FCW, a leader in federal IT news, recently released a report on cybersecurity workforce shortages.
The report consists of interviews with White House representatives and includes tips, goals, and current strategies for attracting and retaining qualified cybersecurity professionals.
The information comes on the heels of several massive breaches, including the Change incident that resulted in nearly a third of Americans having their data stolen, and the Ascension breach that impacted over 100 hospitals and millions of citizens.
Read more:
Going deeper
In an interview with Camille Stewart Gloster, the cyber and technology attorney who led the White House’s cybersecurity workforce and tech strategies, the attorney said she felt that cybersecurity needs to improve diversity and representation through methods such as skills-based hiring.
Stewart Gloster believes workforce shortages can lead to national security risks, as it can create gaps in the overall understanding of the threat landscape.
The report also discussed several tips to establish effective risk management practices, including:
- Proactive Planning: anticipating potential risks and developing response plans.
- Engaging Stakeholders: involve internal and external stakeholders in response planning.
- Regular Training and Communication: providing training programs and communication to improve awareness.
- Test Response Plans: regularly test and update response plans to ensure efficacy.
Another major issue is the lack of funding. The report discussed a new bill introduced in May that would allow for increased outreach to underprivileged community members. The CISA would be required to update Congress annually and would receive $20 annually.
Lastly, the report discussed a proposal for a Cyber Force, a potentially new branch in the military, that would allow those with cyber knowledge to hold leadership positions that could be necessary for national security.
The big picture
As breaches continue to disrupt critical operations, particularly in the healthcare sector, organizations are realizing that a workforce shortage could be part of the problem. With difficulty in hiring and retaining quality staff, it can be challenging for companies to follow and prepare for the constantly changing landscape.
While more professionals are key, it’s also imperative that companies automate as many processes as possible. Many cyber incidents are preventable with the right tools and clear procedures for staff.
Read more: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
Abby Grifno
