Competitions Train Students to Become Cyber Defenders
- Chris Hassan for usnewsuniversitydirectory.com May 23rd, 2013
- Source: http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/articles/competitions-train-students-to-become-cyber-defend_13170.aspx#.UZ5E_Yc4t8E
At a time when so much important information can be accessed through everything from smartphones to computers, the need for cyber security has never been greater. A lot of attention is directed toward keeping the nation's government agencies and businesses safe from hacking, but that does not mean colleges and universities are not also potential targets.
Academic institutions are vulnerable to hackers from foreign and domestic companies, according to USA Today. A 2011 report from the FBI's Counterintelligence Strategic Partnership Unit found that these entities, as well as entrepreneurs, may have an interest in acquiring information and research from these institutions. At the same time, some students are appealing candidates for espionage.
Fortunately, most students go to college to earn a bachelor's degree, and not to start a career as a spy. However, many schools provide a chance for individuals to earn a degree in cyber security, while also honing their skills as cyber defenders.
