The cybersecurity arena is developing at a breakneck pace, creating a significant talent shortage across the industry. This challenge was highlighted by Saugat Sindhu, Senior Partner and Global Head of Advisory Services at Wipro Ltd. He emphasised the pressing need for skilled cybersecurity professionals, noting that the rapid advancements in technology make it difficult for the industry to keep up.
Cybersecurity: A Business Enabler
Over the past decade, cybersecurity has transformed from a corporate function to a crucial business enabler. Sindhu pointed out that cybersecurity is now essential for all companies, not just as a compliance measure but as a strategic asset. Businesses, clients, and industries understand that neglecting cybersecurity can give competitors an advantage, making robust cybersecurity practices indispensable.
The role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) has also evolved. Today, CISOs are responsible for ensuring that businesses have the necessary tools and technologies to grow securely. This includes minimising outages and reputational damage from cyber incidents. According to Sindhu, modern CISOs are more about enabling business operations rather than restricting them.
Generative AI is one of the latest disruptors in the cybersecurity field, much like the cloud was a decade ago. Sindhu explained that different sectors face varying levels of risk with AI adoption. For instance, healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services are particularly vulnerable to attacks like data poisoning, model inversions, and supply chain vulnerabilities. Ensuring the security of AI models is crucial, as vulnerabilities can lead to severe backdoor attacks.
At Wipro, cybersecurity is a top priority, involving multiple departments including the audit office, risk office, core security office, and IT office. Sindhu stated that cybersecurity considerations are now integrated into the onset of any technology transformation project, rather than being an afterthought. This proactive approach ensures that adequate controls are in place from the beginning.
Wipro is heavily investing in cybersecurity training for its employees and practitioners. The company collaborates with major universities in India to support training courses, making it easier to attract new talent. Sindhu emphasised the importance of continuous education and certification to keep up with the fast-paced changes in the field.
Wipro's commitment to cybersecurity is evident in its robust infrastructure. The company boasts over 9,000 cybersecurity specialists and operates 12 global cyber defence centres across more than 60 countries. This extensive network underscores Wipro's dedication to maintaining high security standards and addressing cyber risks proactively.
The rapid evolution of cybersecurity presents pivotal challenges, but also underscores the importance of viewing it as a business enabler. With the right training, proactive measures, and integrated approaches, companies like Wipro are striving to stay ahead of threats and ensure robust protection for their clients. As the demand for cybersecurity talent continues to grow, ongoing education and collaboration will be key to bridging the skills gap.