Each individual and organization has their own priorities when hiring a cyber security auditor. Whether through coursework, credentials, work experience, or a combination of the three, future cybersecurity auditors must prove their competence and expertise. In the cyber auditing field, advancements in education and experience might lead to better job prospects. With the necessary credentials and work experience, someone without a degree in IT can also enter the field as a cybersecurity auditor.
Cyber Security Auditor
A cyber security auditor focuses on all aspects of extensive auditing practices of online security systems and networks in various capacities, such as analysis of existing systems, recommendations for infrastructure repairs and updates, and protocol changes. These cybersecurity experts are in charge of identifying vulnerabilities throughout a business. A cyber security auditor may also be in charge of setting operational and regulatory policies and processes. Professionals in cyber security auditing must also regularly examine cyber-threat trends, laws, and best practices.
Information security auditors have a lot riding on their shoulders. They must ensure that a corporation or government institution is free of criminal and terrorist activities.
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Because most businesses and government agencies retain most of their records in digital databases, they must be adequately protected with firewalls, encryption, and other security measures. These databases must be checked regularly to verify that they meet the most recent IT standards and practices.
Cyber Security Auditor Job Description
A cyber security auditor’s roles and responsibilities will differ depending on the employer, business, education, experience, and skills. However, many daily, monthly, and annual tasks will cross over from one cyber security auditor job to the next.
Cybersecurity auditors’ main job is to look at current cyber security controls and practices in systems fairly and proactively. This lowers risk, improves security compliance, and handles possible security threats. They will also be required to recommend technological changes and cyber security personnel. It will be critical for these professionals to stay current on trends and dangers at all times.
#1. They Create and Oversee Audits.
Cyber auditors are responsible for planning and executing audits to check the safety of a company’s computer systems. Depending on the business scale, audits could be undertaken at the departmental level or across the entire system. It is the auditor’s job to evaluate the organization’s system architecture and establish the audit’s parameters.
#2. They Read Audit Information
After an audit, the auditor is responsible for understanding the results. This analytical and comprehensive process requires the expert to sift through many reports. For example, if a security breach is detected, the administrator must investigate the logs to determine if, when, and from what location a SQL database was compromised. The following step is an analysis and description of the problem and its resolution.
#3. They Compile and Present Auditing Reports.
The auditor is responsible for compiling a report outlining the audit’s findings and providing recommendations for IT specialists and other employees to implement. The auditor must include a cost-benefit analysis in the report if it advises any modifications or enhancements. For example, devoting more people to enhancing security codes will pay off by guaranteeing corporate operations can continue safely and without costly delays.
Cyber Security Auditor Salary
Security auditors have many job titles, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that information security analysts typically make $112,000 annually.Ā
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) job growth predictions for the profession are similarly optimistic, projecting a robust 31.5% field expansion through 2032. However, the banking and financial sector, government agencies, and healthcare institutions need cybersecurity auditors more than other industries and sectors.
Compliance with industry laws and protection of sensitive data from cyberattacks are two reasons cyber security auditors are necessary for these sectors. A master’s degree in cyber security or a related field can also help you move up the corporate ladder and earn a higher salary.
How to Become a Cyber Security Auditor
#1. Complete a Degree
To learn the ins and outs of a company’s security infrastructure, you must have a degree in cyber security or a related discipline. Auditors in cyber security must be well-versed in cryptography, risk management, and network defense. With this information, they can assess a business’s security state and locate potential weak spots.
Many information security programs can be completed online, making them ideal for working professionals who cannot commute to and from campus. Providing more leeway and saving time in your routine.
#2. Get Some Relevant Work Experience.
A thorough understanding of how security measures function is essential for an IT auditor; hence, relevant job experience is essential. Entry-level experience in information security roles like cyber security analysis, network administration, or information security specialist is required for cyber security auditors. This background equips them to spot widespread security flaws, single out specific threats, and devise countermeasures with precision.
#3. Certifications Are the Third Step.
Certifications are a third-party endorsement of your abilities as a security auditor. Some of the most prominent qualifications for digital information auditors include Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC). These credentials attest to your mastery of the subject matter and give businesses faith in your ability to conduct thorough security assessments.
#4. Career Growth
A master’s degree is the quickest and most beneficial approach for people who want to develop their careers. Top businesses generally require or prefer advanced degrees for cybersecurity decision-making jobs. If you’re going to work in higher-level roles, such as the C-suite, a master’s degree will likely be the minimal requirement.
People pursuing a master’s degree can finish a more general degree with a cyber security concentration, such as an MBA or computer science master’s degree. However, at this stage in your educational career, it may be more profitable and enjoyable to pursue a field of expertise such as a master’s degree in cyber security, information systems auditing, or information assurance.
Cyber Security Auditor Certifications
Consider an entry-level credential, such as the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate, if you’re just getting started in cybersecurity. You can get job-ready skills while receiving a credential from an industry leader.
#1. CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
The Cybersecurity Professional Organization’s (ISC)2 CISSP certification is one of the most sought-after qualifications in the business. Earning your CISSP shows that you have experience in IT security and can plan, implement, and manage a cybersecurity program.
Requirements: To take the CISSP exam, you must have five years of total work experience in at least two of the eight cybersecurity fields. Security and Risk Management, Asset Security, Security Architecture and Engineering, Communication and Network Security, Identity and Access Management, Security Assessment and Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security are some topics covered.#2. CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)
This ISACA accreditation demonstrates your competence in identifying security vulnerabilities, devising and implementing controls, and reporting on compliance. It is one of the most well-recognized certificates for cybersecurity auditing careers.
#3. CISM (Certified Information Security Manager)
The ISACA CISM certification validates your knowledge of information security management issues like governance, program creation, and program, incident, and risk management.
Earning your CISM may be wise if you want to transition from the technical to the managerial side of cybersecurity.
Requirements: You must have at least five years of experience in information security management to take the CISM exam. This qualification can be met with general information security experience for up to two years. You can also waive one or two years if you have another valid certification or a graduate degree in an information security-related profession.
#4. CompTIA Security+ certification
CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level security certification that verifies the fundamental skills required for any cybersecurity position. With this certification, you can demonstrate your competence to assess an organization’s security, monitor and secure cloud, mobile, and Internet of Things (IoT) environments, comprehend risk and compliance rules and regulations, and identify and respond to security incidents.
#5. Ethical Hacker Certification (CEH)
Ethical hacking, often known as white-hat hacking, penetration testing, or red teaming, is the practice of legitimately hacking businesses to discover weaknesses before harmful players do. The CEH Certified Ethical Hacker certification is available from the EC Council. Earning it allows you to demonstrate your knowledge of penetration testing, attack detection, vectors, and prevention.
The CEH certification allows you to think like a hacker and proactively approach cybersecurity.
What Does a Cyber Security Auditor Do?
Analyzing or investigating any recent security breaches or issues. Internal security systems, procedures, and policies are being evaluated. Ensuring that all applicable laws and regulations are followed. Creating technical reports that examine and interpret audit results
How Much Does a Cybersecurity Audit Cost?
The price tag for an in-depth study of your company’s IT security will vary widely based on size and complexity.
An IT security audit typically costs you between $750 and $2500. While this may seem like a lot at first glance, it’s important to remember that these audits can protect your business from cyberattacks, the costs of which can quickly add up.
What Is the Difference Between a Security Analyst and a Security Auditor?
In some circumstances, the job titles of security auditor and security analyst are functionally identical. Auditors may be more concerned with regulatory compliance, whereas analysts actively monitor and test systems to protect information and assets.
What Is the Highest Paying Job in Cyber Security?
The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is often the highest-paying cybersecurity position. As the chief executive managing and implementing an organization’s information security program, the CISO is responsible for handling sensitive data and guaranteeing the company’s overall security.
Is Security Auditing a Good Career?
Entry-level security auditors make around $60,000 annually, while mid-career pros earn over $88,000. Senior-level security auditors earn more than $118,000 per year. Security auditors benefit from a projected 15% increase in employment from 2021-31, faster than the national average.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Security Auditor?
Prospective security auditors advance their careers by leveraging the knowledge and skills gained in entry-level and mid-level IT security positions. Individuals with 3-5 years of expertise in general information technology or information technology security are qualified to become security auditors.
Who Can Do a Cyber Security Audit?
To learn the ins and outs of a company’s security infrastructure, you must have a degree in cyber security or a related discipline. Expertise in cryptography, risk management, and network defense are all necessities for cybersecurity auditors.
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Bottom Line
To conduct successful security audits and recommendations, a cyber auditor must be able to keep up with the newest security threats, trends, and technology. Getting the most recent education and then getting practical experience are the first steps in laying the groundwork for your knowledge base.
Minimum employment requirements for a cyber security auditor range from three to five years of experience. There are a variety of paths available for those interested in advancing their careers in cyber security. There is a logical progression to higher-level management and directorship roles. The chief information security officer position, or CISO, provides a direct route to the executive suite for people who are especially driven and proficient in their field.
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