IT Security Coordinator

Also known as an information security analyst, an IT security coordinator is responsible for protecting the organization's information systems and networks. The professional must implement security measures to ensure the protection of customer or company data against unauthorized access, theft and misuse. They should also work with the IT department and investigate IT security breaches.

Typically, the IT security coordinator deals with a wide range or threats to electronic information. They handle any problem related to illegal piracy, viruses, spyware and Trojans and other security requirements. Professionals play an active role in creating specific policies, configurations and standards for the IT domain. It is your responsibility to identify gaps in security design in existing and proposed architectures.

The security officer should look for security improvements and find effective solutions for improvement. They must validate the security of the new systems before implementing them. Professionals should perform penetration tests for a variety of technologies, such as web applications, mobile devices and infrastructure. They must keep up to date on information technology trends and security standards.

Several policies must be developed and implemented to maintain the confidentiality of the organization's data. By creating firewalls and encrypting data transmissions, they protect information when it is received or transmitted.

What does an IT security coordinator do?

IT security coordinators plan and establish security measures to protect customer information and data from unauthorized access, deliberate attacks, theft, and corruption.

Security coordinators face various threats to electronic information, including:

•         illegal piracy
•         viruses, worms, spyware, and trojans
•         denial of service attacks: overloading systems with unnecessary data
•         "phishing": attracts users to leave confidential details on fake websites
•         'pharming': redirects users to fake websites by hijacking authentic website addresses
•         abuse of authorization by authorized system users

How to become a IT security coordinator?

You can access IT security by completing university qualifications or acquiring job skills. If you follow the university path, you must complete a degree or postgraduate diploma in a subject such as:

•         Network security
•         IT (with security options)
•         forensic informatics
•         Corporate information systems

Alternatively, if you work in IT, you can use your experience to switch to cybersecurity work. For example, experience in areas such as systems analysis, database management, or network engineering may be helpful.

Salary:  £ 25,000 to £ 60,000

Starting salary: £ 25,000 to £ 28,000

Experienced salary: £ 30,000 to £ 40,000

Usually, you will negotiate the contract payment and rate.

career path:

With experience, I could move on to network management, IT project management, or security consulting.

You could work for the police, security services, or specialized law firms, conducting a forensic investigation into cybercrime.