Laocon

In recent years, the cybersecurity market has grown at an annual rate of above 10%, driven by the increase in cyberattack-tactics employed by hackers as well as the expansion of cyberspace infrastructure. Today, security measures are required for software and applications in not only computers, but also in smartphones, watches, cars, and home appliances.

Shortage of cybersecurity personnel

Despite the growing need for cybersecurity, a lack of security experts has become a key issue. Japanese companies, for example, lacked an estimated 161,140 personnel in 2018, according to the “Trends and Outlook of IT Personnel Report” conducted by the METI. By 2020, the demand for cybersecurity will only increase and the shortage is forecasted to rise to 200,000. Globally, BCG estimates the world would face a shortage of approximately 1,800,000 persons by 2022.

Vicious Cycle caused by the accumulation of Cyber Security Knowledge

As mentioned earlier, cybersecurity has become more complicated because of an increase in the number of cyberattack-methods used by hackers as well as an increase in the number of cyber-connected devices (i.e. expansion of cyber infrastructure). In an ideal world, preventive measures against cyberattacks should be incorporated in the planning stage of a software / application development process, as it significantly reduces the cost of cybersecurity. Unfortunately, most companies take reactive measures – tackling cybersecurity issues after problems have surfaced.