The data stored in computers is being used for processing and transmitting through various networking systems and hence during these processes, there are chances that it can be used for some illegal purpose. To ensure that the crucial data of the organization remains secured and protected, the information security responsibilities must be carried out effectively and efficiently in order to become a complete professional in this field. This ensures that the organization's information assets remain safe by protecting the valuable information from being accessed by illegal sources.
Key Responsibilities of an Information Security
The information security plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of the organization by protecting it from the possible cyber threats and attacks. He/she is involved in planning, developing, implementing security measures to ensure that all the sensitive data remains secured. While carrying out these duties, he/she ensures that all the security rules and regulations are being adhered to, and that there is no incidence of security violation. The role of an information security is challenging and to understand it in a better way, here are few points that will throw light on the key responsibilities that need to be carried out by an information security:
The information security personnel is also engaged in approving the standards, rules, and regulations that need to followed in the management of information assets. He/she is involved in determining the eligibility criteria for securing access to the most sensitive data. He/she is engaged in implementing appropriate technical and physical safeguards that will assist in securing the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of the organization's most valued information assets. He/she is engaged in reporting the suspected or actual security breaches, directing them to the appropriate department and recording them in the form of reports. He/she also records any system failures or any other relevant details and designs a disaster recovery plan to prevent future failures, thus preventing the data from getting corrupted. He/she ensures that the subordinates are following the security policies and procedures and is involved in training the newly appointed staff to provide guidance about the security procedures. He/she may be involved in ensuring the fact that all the expenses are carried out within the given budget standards. He/she may also make recommendations and provide new ideas to improvise and ensure better level security standards.
Essential Skills
The information security personnel should be able to maintain the confidentiality of data and should be able to explain complex things in a simple and effective way. Good training skills, excellent analytical and communication skills are a must to qualify for this post. Ability to identify areas of security violations and ability to resolve such issues would be an advantage. Proficiency in computers is must, as he/she needs to maintain different kind of reports.
Educational Background
If you are planning to make an entry as an information security, you should have completed a bachelor's degree in information security, computer science, information technology, engineering, or should possess any other equivalent qualification. Experience in a similar profile would prove to be an advantage. Additional certification in security and network configuration, vulnerability management and assessment would be preferred. The individuals with a CISSP certification will definitely have an upper hand.
Work Schedule
The information security person works full time and has got a hectic work schedule. He/she may be required to work extra in the evenings or at nights depending on the workload, though their daily routine hours comprise thirty five to forty hours per week. Occasionally, he/she may be required to work on the weekends and holidays.
Salary Details
The average salary that is earned by an information security is in the range of $51,000 to $54,000. The minimum starting salary package for fresh candidates starts at $30,000, while the maximum can go up to the range of $60,000. It can also vary depending on the location, type, and size of the organization. Experience and educational background with skills will also be the key factors in determining the final salary package.
Career Prospects
There has been a steady and ever increasing growth for hiring the information security personnel, as most of the organizations are heavily relying on computers to store their vital information. Those with a masters or doctoral qualifications have better chances to get promoted to higher positions.
Thus, if you have the right skills, education, and experience, you will be able to handle the information security responsibilities efficiently, thus ensuring a rewarding and flourishing career ahead.