Cracking the Code: A Candid Conversation with a Cybersecurity Guru
Prashant Prashant
This month in our member spotlight, we feature Prashant, we were able to have a casual yet enlightening discussion with this cybersecurity aficionado who's been navigating the digital trenches for years. From quirky origins to the heart of industry challenges, keep reading for a glimpse into his journey, contributions, and hopes for the future.
Q) How did you initially become interested in the field of cybersecurity, and what motivated you to pursue it as a career?
"Cyber Security has always been a passion for me, my fascination with it was ignited during my research days, particularly in Quantum Cryptography. The constant cat-and-mouse game between attackers and defenders intrigued me. The mystery of what adversaries could uncover and how defenders would respond hooked me into making it my career. It's like a never-ending puzzle and it motivates me to keep up with this field every day and every moment of my career."
Q) What roles or positions have you held in the cybersecurity industry?
· Linux Administrator
· IT Administrator
· Cyber Security Specialist
· Cyber Security Manager
· Cyber Security Advisor
· IT Security Architect & Standards Lead
Q) What role do you currently hold?
"I'm currently a Senior Cyber Security Advisor, leading the charge in helping organizations stay a step ahead in the cybersecurity game."
Q) What notable contributions have you made to the cybersecurity community?
"I have been an avid researcher and public speaker expounding the tenets of cybersecurity to the upcoming generation of cybersecurity experts. I've shared my insights through research papers, shedding light on Quantum Computing's potential. You might spot me on stage at B-Sides Conferences, diving into various cybersecurity topics. I also do double duty as an educator, I've worn the hat of a part-time teacher at local institutions like Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) and Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE), spreading knowledge and staying sharp in the process."
Q) In your opinion, what are the most pressing cybersecurity challenges that organizations and individuals currently face?
"The most pressing cybersecurity challenge that organizations and individuals are currently facing is the pace of advancement and change in the field. We're now in an era where cyber threats aren't just geeky pranks but serious concerns, with nation-state actors lurking in the shadows; constantly probing and looking for ways to harm their enemies and cause damage to human safety. Safeguarding against these threats while keeping up with the pace of change is a top priority."
Q) How do you believe these challenges can be mitigated or addressed effectively?
"While there is no silver bullet answer to this profound question, a solid strategy involves understanding risks and proactive management. Linking cybersecurity with an organization's goals is key. Fusing business insights with Information Risk Management helps in smartly handling risks. Cybersecurity experts should spend time understanding the business they support; staying curious, learning from mentors, and experimenting with innovative approaches to disrupt and reduce the impacts of threat adversaries."
Q) Can you share any long-term goals or aspirations you have as a cybersecurity expert?
"I am a firm believer in servant leadership, so my goal is simple yet profound - to be a catalyst for positive change. By nurturing budding talents and sharing knowledge, I aim to make a difference in the cybersecurity community. It's not about flashy titles, but about leaving a mark that enhances the industry and the world at large."
Would you like to connect with Prashant to learn more about his journey?
http://linkedin.com/in/prashantprofile
