Starting out in the Cyber Security Industry

Over the past years, AJC has been fortunate to experience considerable growth. As a natural step to support this, AJC has welcomed additional staff, including several talented graduates. As we approach the first year anniversary of our graduate training programme, we asked some of our new team members how they feel looking back over their first year in the working world.

Embarking on a career in the cyber security industry can feel like standing at the water’s edge, with the tide lapping at your ankles, unsure of the depth or vastness before you, and uncertain about the new discoveries that await as you take a leap of faith. As newcomers to the field, we wanted to share our thoughts, tips, and insights from our first year after we ‘took the plunge.’

Thoughts from AJC’s Newest Staff Members

“The world of cyber security and its intricacies has been truly fascinating. Regardless of one’s level of involvement, it is clear that the cyber landscape is ever-changing and can quickly leave you behind if you stay still for a moment. This was especially evident in Business Continuity (BC), where I learned the importance of staying one step ahead by using past experiences to inform future actions. This thought-provoking learning process enhanced my strategic acumen while also allowing room for creative thinking.

It was exciting to see various business types, create BC PowerPoints for company training, and learn about the diverse challenges companies face. As a solution-oriented person, working in an industry where this skill is essential has been incredibly rewarding. Assisting and improving processes when needed has truly been the highlight of my role.” Jesse

“I joined AJC with limited knowledge of cyber security. My background is in bioscience, not IT, though I’ve always had an interest in computers, dating back to playing games on my parents’ PC as a child. Growing up in the digital age, I had my share of naïve moments, such as giving account details in a game to get free in-game currency, only to discover it was a scam. These experiences taught me early on to be cautious and not let fraudsters compromise my cyber security.

Before joining AJC, I knew the basics—using good antivirus software, downloading only from trustworthy sources, and so on. However, since joining AJC, I’ve been learning more about the world of digital security. I’ve met many welcoming and patient professionals who have provided guidance, training, and confidence in conducting audits for SWIFT CSP and Cyber Essentials. They have taught me what to look for and the types of questions to ask to obtain the necessary information when auditing a client.” Andrew

“Embarking on my journey as a new cyber security associate at AJC has been both exhilarating and enlightening. Despite my initial unfamiliarity with the vast field of cyber security, my time at AJC has provided me with a robust foundation, deepening my understanding. One area that particularly captivated me was the fraud sector. I found immense satisfaction in delving into fraud detection and prevention, participating in fraud audits, and gaining hands-on experience in identifying fraudulent activities – crucial for safeguarding our financial systems. Learning about chargebacks and the mechanisms behind them further highlighted the complexities and challenges of protecting sensitive information and ensuring financial security.

My journey at AJC has been a blend of technical growth and creative exploration. These experiences have not only honed my skills but also sparked a deeper passion for cyber security, motivating me to continue learning and contributing to this dynamic field. I look forward to learning more and progressing, eager to take on new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.” Nicole

Our Top Tips:

1. Protect Personal Information: Only share your date of birth, phone number, or email with essential institutions. Supermarkets and social media platforms don’t need accurate details to access their services. Keep your data safe from online threats.
2. Avoid Free Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi connections are often insecure, making your device vulnerable to hacking and fraudulent activity.
3. Understanding the Industry:
   • Learn the differences between terms like ‘Merchant,’ ‘Acquirer,’ ‘Bank,’ and standards like ‘ISO27001’ and ‘ISO14001.’ Ask colleagues for help to deepen your understanding.
   • Always carry a notepad and pen to jot down important notes and abbreviations during meetings. It helps in building relationships and understanding industry jargon. 
4. Engage with Experts: Attend meetings and sector events to learn from experts, hear about their experiences, and connect with like-minded professionals for further learning opportunities.
5. Stay Informed: Listen to podcasts, read articles, and sign up for news alerts to stay updated on the latest in the cyber world. These resources often feature insights from experienced consultants and industry updates.
6. Join LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a valuable platform for industry knowledge. Connect with professionals, follow companies, read articles, and learn about specialised subjects like fraud, auditing, SWIFT CSP, and payment transaction changes.