The internet of things continues to expand exponentially. More than 8.4 billion web-enabled devices are expected to connect to networks this year, according to Gartner. Enterprises will oversee 3.1 billion of these assets, as information technology teams roll out the back-end infrastructure needed to support cutting-edge mobile workflows meant to maximize efficiency and bolster bottom lines. This industry-agnostic push to adopt IoT technology certainly makes sense considering the possible benefits. However, this technology also poses serious security risks.
As the number of enterprise end points grows, so does the frequency of cyberattacks. And sadly, many IoT adopters have already experienced such events. In fact, an estimated 50 percent of firms with these connected devices in place have suffered data breaches, according to research from business management consulting group Altman Vilandrie and Company. This state of affairs has pushed many businesses to change their IT recruitment practices, in an effort to shore up internal data security resources and protect themselves from hackers looking to invade via IoT technology.
Changing recruitment needs
In the past, organizations largely thought of IT professionals as simple system administrators – the individuals in the back room who manage internal networks and answer trouble tickets now and then. This is no longer the case. Now, companies expect IT teams to not only oversee essential hardware and software, but also protect it from digital invaders thirsting for trade secrets or sellable employee or customer information. In short, recruitment priorities have changed.
What kind of skills are human resources personnel looking for? At the moment, cloud security is at the top of the list, as many organizations are migrating enterprise applications and data from on-premises equipment to cloud-based servers, which better facilitate IoT workflows, according to analysts at Gartner. Additionally, a large number are focusing on preventive security strategies rather than protective approaches, as the sheer number of end points makes it difficult to shield company applications and data digitally. Instead, IT professionals must develop and deploy preventive methodologies that hinge on employee education and cutting-edge threat detection technology.
“An estimated 50 percent of firms with IoT devices in place have suffered data breaches.”
Addressing the skills gap
Unfortunately, most organizations in need of IT workers with advanced security skills are struggling to find the RIGHT candidates. In fact, only 59 percent of companies worldwide have received at least five applications in response to IT security job openings, Information Systems Audit and Control Association found. The ones that do receive large numbers or responses are inundated with candidates who simply do not have the skills and experience required to do the job. As a result, many internal IT security jobs remain unfilled, putting organizations at risk. The total number of open IT security roles is expected to surpass 3.5 million within the next four years, according to The Channel Company.
With the number of inherently vulnerable IoT end points growing, enterprises must quickly find a solution to this problem. While third-party data security firms are good stopgap solutions, in-house personnel are best suited to protect sensitive networking assets and the employees and customers who use them. But how do organizations overcome the skills gap? YES Partners can help. Our skilled recruiters can put you in touch with IT security specialists who have the expertise and skills necessary to protect your mission-critical computational assets, from traditional on-premises servers to advanced IoT fixtures.
To see some of the roles we have already successfully placed, click here.
Finding people is easy, but finding the RIGHT people is not. YES Partners helps companies FIND the right people for all company functions, across many industries.
