Why Large Companies Should Offer Cyber Security Graduate Jobs

Demand for cyber security professionals who can implement measures to protect companies is surging. As cyber criminals become more creative with their attack methods, solid defences are more important than ever. However, because of a global talent shortage in the cyber security industry, businesses have flawed defences and are susceptible to attacks. 

There is a solution. Cyber security graduates can save your large company money, build a reputable image, and attract new customers. How? Read our guide to learn more. 

A constant and evolving threat to businesses 

Society is becoming increasingly interconnected, and this has been amplified by the Internet of Things (IoT). While this has positives, the dependency of such devices in this digitally-focused world has posed some problems in the form of cyber security threats. Technological developments have exasperated these risks and jeopardised the operations of several industries. There are various types of cyber security attacks, including: 

• Malware: This is software like viruses and spyware that infects devices and steals data. These attacks are rising, with a 30% increase in the first half of 2024. 
  
  
• Ransomware: Software that encrypts victims’ data and demands a fee for its release. This year saw a 92% increase in these attacks. 
  
  
• Phishing: Fraudulent messages designed to trick the receiver into revealing sensitive information. 
  
  
• Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS): Overwhelming a system or network with traffic so that it’s unusable. 
  
  
• Corporate Account Takeover (CATO): Attackers pose as businesses for unauthorised wire transfers. 

Cyber criminals are becoming more sophisticated in their methods, and large companies with insufficient measures will be targets for malicious attacks. The consequences of this can be severe, for example: 

• Per year, cyber crime is forecast to cost the world $9.5 trillion. 
  
  
• On average, the most disruptive cyber security breaches cost large UK businesses around £10,830. 
  
  
• Excluding phishing scams, the average annual cost of cyber crime is estimated at roughly £1,120 per victim. 
  
  
• Following an attack, UK businesses must spend around £21,000 to rectify it. 

Aside from the financial ramifications, large companies’ brand images would be stained if they fell victim to cyber crime. It highlights a lack of care in protecting peoples’ data properly. 

Addressing the cyber security skills gap 

Technology could be considered a double-edged sword for companies’ susceptibility to cyber attacks. The pace at which tech is evolving is the catalyst for more advanced attacks, which is compounded by a lack of cyber security professionals with the latest knowledge to counteract it. Illustrating this dearth, by 2025, it’s expected that the demand for cyber security jobs will outpace the supply - leaving around 3.5 million roles unfilled globally. 

It’s imperative that businesses tackle this issue so that they’re not vulnerable to cyber criminals. On the surface, it might seem that a complex problem demands an intricate or expensive solution. However, there is an approach that will be welcomed by large companies across the globe. 

Benefits of hiring a cyber graduate

As alluded to, cyber security recruitment needn’t be an extortionate venture for large companies. Hiring a cyber security graduate represents a cheaper alternative to employing an experienced cyber security professional. Furthermore, the traits of graduates tend to be enthusiasm and a genuine desire for development. Let’s explore some other advantages of turning to a cyber security graduate. 

Fresh talent, fresh knowledge 

Who would be better equipped to stem the latest wave of cyber attacks than those who have the latest knowledge pertaining to preventing them? A cyber security graduate will be adept with cutting-edge methods that combat emerging threats, for example: 

Artificial intelligence

Cyber security graduates will have in-depth knowledge of not just the threat posed by AI but how it can be deployed to thwart attacks. By analysing vast amounts of data, AI can detect anomalies that signal security breaches. In addition, AI systems can improve efficiency through automating responses to threats. IMB is a real-world example of this tech being implemented. 

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) 

Sensitive information and systems can be protected with extra layers of security. To access them, several forms of verification will have to be provided. This measure significantly reduces the risk of breaches and is an approach that cyber security graduates will be familiar with. 

Advanced encryption techniques 

Many large organisations implement encryption protocols to protect data at rest and transit. Cyber security graduates will be accustomed to the following technologies:  

• AES (Advanced Encryption Standard): This symmetric block cypher algorithm encrypts data in blocks of 128 bits utilising cypher keys of 128, 192, or 256 bits. AES also allows longer keys and stronger security. Depending on the key size, AES is capable of executing 10, 12 and 14 rounds of encryption for maximum security. 
  
  
• RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman): This asymmetric encryption algorithm secures data transmission using a public and private key for decryption. 
  
  
• Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC): Based on the algebraic structure of elliptic curves over finite fields, ECC is an approach to public-key cryptography that provides higher levels of security with shorter key lengths than RSA. 
  
  
• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): This method uses the principles of quantum mechanics to exchange encryption keys between two parties. Theoretically, this defence is unbreakable because of its key principles. Firstly, the no-cloning theorem renders it impossible to replicate an unknown quantum state. Secondly, quantum measurement disturbance means any attempt to observe a quantum system disturbs it and enables detection. 

A long-term investment  

Large companies can save money in more ways than one when hiring a cyber security graduate. Naturally, they will be cheaper to employ than an experienced professional. However, their up-to-date proficiency with compliance and regulatory frameworks could save your business money. Non-compliance can result in heavy penalties, such as: 

• NIS2 Directive: Essential entities could receive a fine of up to €10,000,000 or 2% of the global yearly revenue. For important entities, it’s €7,000,000 or 1.4% of the annual global revenue - whichever is higher will be applied. 
  
  
• GDPR: Fines can be astronomical. This year, the Dutch Data Protection Authority fined Uber €290 million for transferring EU drivers’ data to the U.S. 
  
  
• HIPAA: Depending on the level of culpability, HIPAA violations could be anywhere between $141 and $2,134,831 per offence. 
  
  
• PCI DSS: If companies don’t comply with PCI DSS, they could receive monthly fines of up to $100,000.

Aside from saving your business from high salaries and having the potential to prevent your business from being struck with crippling fines, how else is a cyber security graduate a long-term investment? 

Culture is central to large, successful companies. With a cyber security graduate, you have the opportunity to shape them so that they properly understand the company’s needs and align with the culture that you’ve fostered. Companies with cultures that mirror business objectives generally experience better performance. High cultural alignment leads to higher revenue, EBITDA and 4% lower attrition rates. 

Builds a strong brand image 

Recruiting a cyber security graduate showcases a commitment to giving emerging talent a chance to begin a new career. Other young professionals may see this and view companies as forward-thinking. More importantly, as discussed, they will be equipped with the latest cyber security skills to protect companies from innovative threats sufficiently. 

This is critical for various reasons. Customers want to be confident that their data is secure. Failing to do so can be catastrophic, and not just financially; it can be extremely damaging to a company’s reputation. Companies that demonstrate diligence with cyber security solutions are likely to earn the trust of existing and new customers. 

Final say: Why you should offer cyber security graduate jobs  

If you’re a large company, you could benefit from recruiting a cyber security graduate in a multitude of ways. It’s a cost-effective, long-term investment that shows a commitment to believing in a new generation of cyber security experts. There’s a notion that graduates lack experience. However, what they lack in perceived experience, they certainly make up for in having the latest knowledge of cutting-edge defences. 

By showing trust in emerging cyber security professionals, your business also gains the trust of customers and stakeholders. This is because dedication to protecting peoples’ data is paramount in today’s world. 

Your business may already be vulnerable to threats, and that vulnerability might be magnified by the cyber security talent gap. That can be challenged by offering and advertising cyber security graduate jobs. You position your company as responsible, forward-thinking and trustworthy. This strong reputation leads to customers and more young, exciting talent. 

Cyber security recruitment strategies to source the best talent

Exceptional service is synonymous with Hamilton Barnes. Whether it’s permanent or contract solutions, we’re committed to helping you headhunt candidates ready to take your business to a new level. If you think your problem is niche, think again. We specialise in providing solutions. 

Learn what we could do for you. Visit our cyber security page or contact us today to connect with a team member.