Cybercrime has become one of the most critical issues facing the tech industry in recent years. As a result, individuals with degrees and other academic qualifications in cyber security are in high demand. Although most students interested in this field consider it a worthwhile investment and milestone, they often wonder if they can get an online PhD in cyber security. Consequently, they lack the motivation to pursue their interests due to inadequate information about the course and how to go about it. Here is a brief overview of strategies to benefit from online learning programs for this highly demanded course and whether it is worth pursuing.
Is it Worth Getting a PhD in Cyber Security?
Cyber security PhD is an academic program focusing on specific areas of study such as embedded systems, human-centered computing, information systems, and cyberinfrastructure. The course takes approximately five to seven years and involves class work, research, and hands-on training. Within the first 24 months, students spend most of their time completing graduate classes, mastering theoretical knowledge, and doing examinations. The remaining 36 months entail independent research and writing a dissertation or scientific thesis, giving detailed information about a scholar’s work. Given the extensive academic work associated with this program, most people wonder if it’s worth getting a PhD in cybersecurity. So, let’s examine some reasons for enrolling in this course and whether it's a good idea.
A PhD in cyber security covers artificial intelligence, information theory, machine learning, cyber law, and neural networks. In addition, it equips learners with the knowledge and practical experience related to network and homeland security. Due to technological advancements and increasing demand for tech experts in today’s society, individuals with adequate information in these areas are more marketable in the job market.
After completing a doctoral program in cyber security, graduates can solve complex issues in their workplace and the organizations they represent. Since the course revolves around critical industry problems within cybersecurity and information systems, you will likely gain advanced and expert knowledge in your area of specialization, enabling you to apply practical solutions to your company. Furthermore, while pursuing the course, you will be able to explore specific topics, including computer science, network security, and methods to solve cyber-attacks, giving you tips to engage in more research and development initiatives. Therefore, it is advisable to do PhD in cyber security, especially if you aspire to become more efficient and resourceful in the tech industry.
Due to intensive studying, class assignments, practical lessons, and other demands associated with a PHD course in cyber security, students who enroll in the program might find it challenging to balance school work and personal life. Luckily, they can get professional homework assistance from custom dissertation writing services dedicated to helping learners have a smooth college and university life. The company has experienced helpers who understand different types of assignments and do their best to deliver quality papers regardless of their complexity and urgency. So, whenever you’re stuck with your cybersecurity dissertation or thesis, there is always someone to assist you.
How to Get a PhD in Cyber Security Online
If you anticipate getting a PhD in cyber security, you should have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized learning institution with high academic standards. The typical qualifications include a 3.3 to 3.5 cumulative grade point average (GPA). For a master’s degree in this program, students should have attained a 3.0 cumulative GPA during their undergraduate studies. Since the requirements for prosecutive students are not limited to these requirements, learners must achieve high marks in their early education. Still, those with a slightly lower GPA can be admitted to the program, although they should have additional professional experience or exceptional Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores.
It is rare to find a graduate with a PhD in cyber security. While there are numerous online programs focusing on communications and technology, there are limited facilities offering cybersecurity as a major. The discipline is usually offered as part of computer science or courses dealing with information assurance. As a result, it is not easy to find students with doctoral degrees in this academic area.
For students who consider a PhD in cyber security worth it, there are very few opportunities to pursue the course online. Most programs require learners to enroll in physical classes and complete in-residence to facilitate effective learning and interaction with faculty members. During this period, it is mandatory to write dissertations and defend them in front of a panel from their faculty to show competence and mastery of class concepts. Therefore, if you plan to do the course, you should have a flexible program to ensure you don’t miss classes.
Although some learning institutions allow students to pursue a PhD in cyber security online through virtual training programs, they should anticipate online courses with on-campus requirements at some point. Therefore, it’s advisable to prepare yourself for online coursework and learning that blends with the necessities for physical classes. Nonetheless, you can enroll in an institution offering an online Master’s degree program in a similar tech course or discipline that can be counted as part of the PhD qualifications.
If you find a college combining online and on-campus learning, you should not think twice since such opportunities are rare. Residency in schools offering such programs lasts for a weekend or a full week and mainly involves laboratory sessions where students are expected to apply theoretical knowledge to practical lessons. Whichever university you choose, you must have a proper setup to run its learning management system. Some course materials may require learners to have a tablet or a smartphone. However, it is a good idea to invest in a good laptop or desktop supporting Mac or windows operating system to avoid poor connectivity and communication during virtual lessons.
Other technical requirements to help you obtain an online degree include having access to a stable high-speed internet connection to stream lectures and download course materials. Furthermore, since some classes may require live attendance, your electronic device should have a functional microphone and webcam.
So, What is the Final Take on Pursuing a PhD in Cyber Security?
Cybersecurity is one of the most exciting fields for computer-minded people who like participating in challenging and creative activities. Despite the program’s complexity, it offers numerous career possibilities in the tech industry. Furthermore, students who get a PhD in cyber security are exposed to a more competitive working environment, thus providing room for professional growth. Therefore, despite how challenging it may be to get it online, it is one of the best choices you will ever make in your academic and career path.
Online Threat Alerts Security Tips
Pay the safest way
Credit cards are the safest way to pay for online purchases because you can dispute the charges if you never get the goods or services or if the offer was misrepresented. Federal law limits your liability to $50 if someone makes unauthorized charges to your account, and most credit card issuers will remove them completely if you report the problem promptly.
Guard your personal information
In any transaction you conduct, make sure to check with your state or local consumer protection agency and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see if the seller, charity, company, or organization is credible. Be especially wary if the entity is unfamiliar to you. Always call the number found on a website’s contact information to make sure the number legitimately belongs to the entity you are dealing with.
Be careful of the information you share
Never give out your codes, passwords or personal information, unless you are sure of who you're dealing with
Know who you’re dealing with
Crooks pretending to be from companies you do business with may call or send an email, claiming they need to verify your personal information. Don’t provide your credit card or bank account number unless you are actually paying for something and know who you are sending payment to. Your social security number should not be necessary unless you are applying for credit. Be especially suspicious if someone claiming to be from a company with whom you have an account asks for information that the business already has.
Check your accounts
Regularly check your account transactions and report any suspicious or unauthorised transactions.
Don’t believe promises of easy money
If someone claims that you can earn money with little or no work, get a loan or credit card even if you have bad credit, or make money on an investment with little or no risk, it’s probably a scam. Oftentimes, offers that seem too good to be true, actually are too good to be true.
Do not open email from people you don’t know
If you are unsure whether an email you received is legitimate, try contacting the sender directly via other means. Do not click on any links in an email unless you are sure it is safe.
Think before you click
If an email or text message looks suspicious, don’t open any attachments or click on the links.
Verify urgent requests or unsolicited emails, messages or phone calls before you respond
If you receive a message or a phone call asking for immediate action and don't know the sender, it could be a phishing message.
Be careful with links and new website addresses
Malicious website addresses may appear almost identical to legitimate sites. Scammers often use a slight variation in spelling or logo to lure you. Malicious links can also come from friends whose email has unknowingly been compromised, so be careful.
Secure your personal information
Before providing any personal information, such as your date of birth, Social Security number, account numbers, and passwords, be sure the website is secure.
Stay informed on the latest cyber threats
Keep yourself up to date on current scams by visiting this website daily.
Use Strong Passwords
Strong passwords are critical to online security.
Keep your software up to date and maintain preventative software programs
Keep all of your software applications up to date on your computers and mobile devices. Install software that provides antivirus, firewall, and email filter services.
Update the operating systems on your electronic devices
Make sure your operating systems (OSs) and applications are up to date on all of your electronic devices. Older and unpatched versions of OSs and software are the target of many hacks. Read the CISA security tip on Understanding Patches and Software Updates for more information.
What if You Got Scammed?
Stop Contact With The Scammer
Hang up the phone. Do not reply to emails, messages, or letters that the scammer sends. Do not make any more payments to the scammer. Beware of additional scammers who may contact you claiming they can help you get your lost money back.
Secure Your Finances
- Report potentially compromised bank account, credit or debit card information to your financial institution(s) immediately. They may be able to cancel or reverse fraudulent transactions.
- Notify the three major credit bureaus. They can add a fraud alert to warn potential credit grantors that you may be a victim of identity theft. You may also want to consider placing a free security freeze on your credit report. Doing so prevents lenders and others from accessing your credit report entirely, which will prevent them from extending credit:
- Equifax
- Experian
- TransUnion
Check Your Computer
If your computer was accessed or otherwise affected by a scam, check to make sure that your anti-virus is up-to-date and running and that your system is free of malware and keylogging software. You may also need to seek the help of a computer repair company. Consider utilizing the Better Business Bureau’s website to find a reputable company.
Change Your Account Passwords
Update your bank, credit card, social media, and email account passwords to try to limit further unauthorized access. Make sure to choose strong passwords when changing account passwords.
Report The Scam
Reporting helps protect others. While agencies can’t always track down perpetrators of crimes against scammers, they can utilize the information gathered to record patterns of abuse which may lead to action being taken against a company or industry.
Report your issue to the following agencies based on the nature of the scam:
- Local Law Enforcement: Consumers are encouraged to report scams to their local police department or sheriff’s office, especially if you lost money or property or had your identity compromised.
- Federal Trade Commission: Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or use the Online Complaint Assistant to report various types of fraud, including counterfeit checks, lottery or sweepstakes scams, and more.
- Identitytheft.gov: If someone is using your personal information, like your Social Security, credit card, or bank account number, to open new accounts, make purchases, or get a tax refund, report it at www.identitytheft.gov. This federal government site will also help you create your Identity Theft Report and a personal recovery plan based on your situation. Questions can be directed to 877-ID THEFT.
How To Recognize a Phishing Scam
Scammers use email or text messages to try to steal your passwords, account numbers, or Social Security numbers. If they get that information, they could get access to your email, bank, or other accounts. Or they could sell your information to other scammers. Scammers launch thousands of phishing attacks like these every day — and they’re often successful.
Scammers often update their tactics to keep up with the latest news or trends, but here are some common tactics used in phishing emails or text messages:
Phishing emails and text messages often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment. You might get an unexpected email or text message that looks like it’s from a company you know or trust, like a bank or a credit card or utility company. Or maybe it’s from an online payment website or app. The message could be from a scammer, who might
- say they’ve noticed some suspicious activity or log-in attempts — they haven’t
- claim there’s a problem with your account or your payment information — there isn’t
- say you need to confirm some personal or financial information — you don’t
- include an invoice you don’t recognize — it’s fake
- want you to click on a link to make a payment — but the link has malware
- say you’re eligible to register for a government refund — it’s a scam
- offer a coupon for free stuff — it’s not real
About Online Threat Alerts (OTA)
Online Threat Alerts or OTA is an anti-cybercrime community that started in 2012. OTA alerts the public to cyber crimes and other web threats.
By alerting the public, we have prevented a lot of online users from getting scammed or becoming victims of cybercrimes.
With the ever-increasing number of people going online, it important to have a community like OTA that continuously alerts or protects those same people from cyber-criminals, scammers and hackers, who are every day finding new ways of carrying out their malicious activities.
Online users can help by reporting suspicious or malicious messages or websites to OTA. And, if they want to determine if a message or website is a threat or scam, they can use OTA's search engine to search for the website or parts of the message for information.
Help maintain Online Threat Alerts (OTA).