The report suggested the increase in cloud, mobile computing, and the Internet of Things, as well as advanced targeted cyberattacks and cyberterrorism across the globe, makes the need for a stronger cybersecurity workforce critical.

"The security industry has talked at length about how to address the storm of hacks and breaches, but government and the private sector haven't brought enough urgency to solving the cybersecurity talent shortage," Chris Young, senior vice president and general manager of Intel Security Group said. "To address this workforce crisis, we need to foster new education models, accelerate the availability of training opportunities, and we need to deliver deeper automation so that talent is put to its best use on the front line. Finally, we absolutely must diversify our ranks."

The demand for cybersecurity professionals is outpacing the supply of qualified workers, with highly technical skills the most in need across all countries surveyed. Skills such as intrusion detection, secure software development and attack mitigation are far more valued than softer skills including collaboration, leadership and effective communication.

Can your cybersecurity strategy handle an attack? Do you have the latest tools and techniques to prevent fraud and data breaches? 

Get them at our two-day conference Fraud: Don't Let It Happen To Your Credit Union Oct. 11-12 at the Sheraton Dallas. Plus you'll also learn strategies for responding in the immediate aftermath and best practices for restoring reputation, financial stability and information security. Save $150 and Register Now!

This report studied four dimensions that comprise the cybersecurity talent shortage:

• Cybersecurity spending: Countries and industry sectors that spend more on cybersecurity are better able to deal with the workforce shortages.
• Education and training: Only 23% of respondents say education programs are preparing students to enter the industry. Non-traditional methods of practical learning, such as hands-on training, gaming and technology exercises and hackathons, may be a more effective way to acquire and grow cybersecurity skills.
• Employer dynamics: While salary is the top motivating factor in recruitment, other incentives are important in recruiting and retaining top talent, such as training, growth opportunities and reputation of the employer's IT department. Almost half of respondents cite lack of training or qualification sponsorship as common reasons for talent departure.
• Government policies: 76% of respondents say their governments are not investing enough in building cybersecurity talent.

The reports recommendations for moving forward include redefining minimum credentials for entry-level cybersecurity jobs, accepting non-traditional sources of education, diversifying the cybersecurity field, providing more opportunities for external training, identifying technology that can provide intelligent security automation, and collecting attack data and developing better metrics to quickly identify threats.

Can your cybersecurity strategy handle an attack? Do you have the latest tools and techniques to prevent fraud and data breaches? 

Get them at our two-day conference Fraud: Don't Let It Happen To Your Credit Union Oct. 11-12 at the Sheraton Dallas. Plus you'll also learn strategies for responding in the immediate aftermath and best practices for restoring reputation, financial stability and information security. Save $150 and Register Now!