…calls for more cyber forensic professionals
In a very comprehensive 3 days of virtual skills training that left a lasting imprint on 313 eager minds, Threat Combat recently concluded a very insightful training programme in the art of Memory/Malware Forensics. This wasn’t just a training programme, it was a journey into the cyber-realm, meticulously crafted by Threat Combat’s expert team for the cybersecurity enthusiasts and professionals of Ghana.
The training’s first part concluded in December and involved the course’s theoretical aspects. Participants were afterward given resources and materials to set-up and prepare for the second part in January.
The second part was a fully practical training. Students were trained on the standard forensic investigative approach to tackle cyber incident-responses, involving Malware analysis and subsequently Memory forensics. Several use cases and real-world examples were used to train participants.
After the training’s second part, participants were left on their own to carry out forensic investigations based on what had been taught and produce reports. Participants were supervised during their projects to make sure students understood what they were doing.
The Threat Combat team lead, Daniel Kwaku Ntiamoah Addai, expressed his satisfaction with the training and encouraged students and professionals to look at career areas in Cyber security, Cyber incident response and digital forensics, as they have become global needs and a present a very well-paying career field.
He stated in his comments: “Threat Combat’s Cyber Forensics experts have designed a curriculum that isn’t just about learning; it’s about gaining the prowess to dissect cyber threats at their core”.
Why Memory/Malware?
In the ever-evolving world of cyber threats, Memory/Malware Forensics emerges as the unsung hero. This training isn’t just about acquiring knowledge; it’s a strategic move to equip participants with the skills needed to combat the most sophisticated cyber adversaries. The goal is clear: empower individuals to not only respond but proactively defend against the relentless wave of cyber threats.
From conferences to classrooms
Threat Combat’s influence extends beyond training rooms; it resonates in the corridors of in-person and virtual conferences, connecting professionals and students to the heartbeat of cybersecurity innovations. The recent training programme is a testament of Threat Combat’s commitment to elevating cyber discussions from conference halls to intimate classrooms, where hands-on learning thrives.
Digital crimes in Ghana: a growing threat
Digital crimes, encompassing cyberattacks and online fraud, pose an escalating threat to Ghana’s rapidly advancing digital landscape. With the surge in technological adoption, the risk of cyber threats has intensified, targetting individuals, businesses and even critical sectors like banking.
Why Ghana needs cyber forensics professionals:
- Mitigating cyber threats: The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats necessitate a robust response. Cyber forensics professionals play a pivotal role in identifying, investigating and mitigating digital crimes, safeguarding both individuals and organisations.
- Compliance with cybersecurity regulations: Ghana’s Cybersecurity Act of 2020 and the Bank of Ghana’s Cyber/Information Security Directive of 2018 underscore the importance of securing digital assets. Cyber forensics professionals are vital in ensuring compliance with these regulations, protecting sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of financial systems.
- Enhancing incident response: In the event of a cyber incident, swift and effective response is critical. Cyber forensics experts possess the skills to conduct thorough investigations, trace the origins of attacks and provide invaluable insights to enhance incident response strategies.
In essence, the rise in digital crimes necessitates a proactive approach; and the expertise of cyber forensics professionals is pivotal for securing Ghana’s digital ecosystem in alignment with regulatory frameworks.
Forging tomorrow
But Threat Combat isn’t content with merely maintaining the status quo: It’s on the brink of signing two memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with distinguished institutions. These MoUs aren’t just ink on paper; they’re pathways to revolutionising cyber forensics education in Ghana. Imagine the impact: certified cyber defenders emerging from these institutions, armed with Threat Combat’s expertise.
As Threat Combat celebrates the success of its recent training, the vision for the future is painted with bold strokes:
- Expanding horizons: Threat Combat envisions reaching every corner of society, democratising cyber knowledge and making it accessible to a broader audience.
- Global recognition: The organisation aspires to elevate Ghana to a global hub for cyber forensics excellence, attracting the attention and collaboration of cybersecurity professionals worldwide.
- Innovation prowess: Investments in research and development are doubling, ensuring Threat Combat’s programmes remain at the forefront of cybersecurity education.
- Community resonance: A vibrant community of cybersecurity enthusiasts is taking shape, fostering a culture of continuous learning, collaboration and knowledge exchange.
In the words of Threat Combat’s visionary leader, Daniel Addai, this journey is a collective endeavour. “We’re not just training individuals; we’re nurturing a community at the frontline of cyber defence. Together, we sow the seeds of a secure digital future.”
As Threat Combat stands at the crossroads of reflection and anticipation, it extends a hand to stakeholders – inviting them to fortify the foundations of cybersecurity education and collectively shape a resilient and secure digital landscape. This isn’t a conclusion; it’s a prelude to the next chapter in Threat Combat’s cyber saga – a chapter waiting to be written with the ink of innovation, collaboration and cyber excellence.
>>>the writer is a Cyber forensics, Fraud Investigation and Audit Team Lead at Threat Combat. He can be reached via [email protected]
