Tash Brown – Smart Living, Smart Choices

In the next of our technology-inspired Catherine articles, we hear from Tash Brown (Class of 2019).

Tasha Brown started her education at Santa Maria College in 2012. Upon graduating, she was awarded the Academic Excellence Scholarship to attend Curtin University. She chose to study cybersecurity owing to a developed interest in computers from her time in Applied Information Technology at Santa Maria. Tasha was selected to attend the Cyber Gap program in her penultimate year of study, run by the Australian Defence Force. Having fortunately found a field she is passionate about, she excelled in her degree and won the cybersecurity award in her graduating class. She specialises in offensive security and currently works for the Federal government.

At its core, cybersecurity is about safeguarding systems, networks, and applications from digital threats. While it is commonly associated with protecting businesses, especially those handling critical infrastructure or sensitive data, cybersecurity is equally crucial in our personal lives. In today’s world, our homes are becoming increasingly connected through the Internet of Things (IoT), a trend that has led to the rise of ‘smart homes’. This technology offers convenience and efficiency, allowing us to control everything from refrigerators that notify us when we are running low on groceries to lighting systems that can be adjusted with a tap on our smartphones. However, this surge in connectivity also opens up new vulnerabilities. Smart devices are often overlooked when it comes to cybersecurity, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. Many of these devices, such as smart thermostats, security cameras, and voice assistants, are connected to the internet and can be vulnerable to various types of attacks if not properly secured. Hackers can exploit these weaknesses to gain unauthorised access to personal information, disrupt home networks, or even control the devices themselves.

To address these risks, it is essential to implement strong security measures at home. This includes setting up robust passwords, regularly updating device firmware, and using secure, encrypted networks. Additionally, understanding each device’s privacy settings and configuring them appropriately can help minimise potential vulnerabilities.

As our homes become smarter and more interconnected, maintaining a vigilant approach to cybersecurity is crucial. By taking proactive steps to protect your smart devices and home network, you can help ensure that the conveniences of modern technology do not come at the cost of your personal security and privacy.

In saying all this, I think it is important to differentiate between being security-aware at home and pursuing a career in cybersecurity. The surge of interest in the field has led many to flock to a profession that is often advertised as a lucrative and high-demand career option. However, the reality is that the field is highly specialised and requires a deep understanding of complex technical concepts. Many individuals drawn to cybersecurity by its glamorous portrayal may find themselves unprepared for the rigorous and often challenging nature of the work. It is essential to approach this career path with realistic expectations and a genuine interest in the subject matter.

That being said, for those who have a genuine passion for problem-solving, a keen interest in technology, and a strong aptitude for continuous learning, cybersecurity can be an excellent fit. The field offers a variety of career paths, broadly categorised into offensive and defensive roles. Offensive cybersecurity roles include Penetration Tester, Vulnerability Researcher, Exploit Developer, and Red Teamer, all focused on identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in systems. These roles require creativity, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of how systems can be compromised.

On the defensive side, careers such as SOC (Security Operations Center) Analyst, Incident Responder, Malware Analyst, Security Auditor, and Threat Engineer focus on protecting and defending systems from attacks. These roles involve monitoring networks for suspicious activity, responding to security incidents, analysing malware, auditing security practices, and developing strategies to mitigate threats. Defensive roles require meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to think like an attacker to anticipate and prevent potential security breaches.

While this is not an exhaustive list, it provides a glimpse into the diverse opportunities within the field. Cybersecurity also encompasses roles in governance, risk management, compliance, and security awareness training, among others. Each of these roles plays a crucial part in building a comprehensive security strategy and ensuring the protection of digital assets.

For those enthusiastic about cybersecurity and prepared for its technical demands, it can be a deeply rewarding and impactful career choice. The cybersecurity landscape is constantly evolving, offering endless opportunities for growth, learning, and specialisation.

In conclusion, while cybersecurity should not be chosen lightly or simply because it is a trending career, it holds significant promise for those with the right skills and mindset. By carefully considering your interests, strengths, and willingness to tackle the challenges inherent in this field, you can determine whether a career in cybersecurity is the right path for you.