Introducing women with a deep interest in cybersecurity

Hi, my name is Pratima. I am a cybersecurity practitioner who has been working for almost 10 years, holding a master’s degree in Cyber Law and Information Security. My key focus area is in cybersecurity risk & resiliency, risk governance, and compliance. I'm currently working with Keppel T&T holding a Cyber Security Lead role in IT/OT risk management, compliance, and cybersecurity incident management. Aside from work, I am member of AiSP CAAP and Ladies in Cyber Programme. Also, I am part of ISC2 Mentorship programme cohort and volunteer in ISACA Sheleadstech programme. Engaging in volunteer work in non-profit associations is something that helps me keep abreast in the field of cybersecurity.

What brought you to the cybersecurity industry?

While completing my bachelor’s in computer science & engineering degree, I realised that I needed something more challenging than coding (personally I don’t love coding) so I decided to go for a post graduate degree. At that point in time (back in year 2011) the word “HACKING” was quite famous, so I considered my masters to learn the world of “ETHICAL HACKING” and that’s how it all started

What were your defining moments in this industry, and factors or guidance that helped you achieve them?

There are a few moments and people that played out the success of my career in this field. I got an on-campus placement with an international opportunity and the hiring manager showed a lot of confidence and trust in me. He mentored the team, provided right guidance, and empowered us. During my initial year or work, I also got the opportunity to be on the hiring team for new joiners and be their mentor to guide them through their project deliverables.

What is it that you love most about your role?

I like to be challenged every day and not be monotonous. Everyone knows working in this field is quite challenging and every day we hear of new things that require learning. In addition to that, the profession makes me think out of the box to solve problems in different environments with different teams.

Prominent Cybersecurity trends:

What are some of the trends you have seen in the market lately, and what do you think will emerge in the future?

The adaptation of digital technology in day-to-day life to make life easier and more convenient. People in all age groups are digital literate or aware of how to harness the digital capability in their day-to-day life. As we are growing our digital footprint, there is an increase in the attack surface for adversaries, securing the digital world from adversaries is currently trending. I believe as adversaries already infiltrated the Information Technology space, they are now moving towards Operational Technology. There are so many unknowns in the OT field which make it a trending space.

Females in Cyber Security

What can we do to encourage more women to join the cybersecurity sector?

Organising more career awareness sessions in schools for secondary school girls to provide them information for the choices they have in the cybersecurity field. I have come across quite a few women colleagues who wanted to move from IT to cybersecurity seeking advice. I believe non-profit organisations like AiSP are doing many initiatives to help guide women as more women join the cybersecurity field.

Final thoughts

How can you debunk the myth that cybersecurity is only for men? Is there any indication this stereotyping is changing?

Usually, cybersecurity is considered an IT problem and women are not considered tech-savvy, which is untrue. Cybersecurity has many areas of specialities and women also hold many technical leadership positions. The one thing I would like to say is don’t get intimidated by anyone. Everyone is unique in their own way, don’t be afraid to build your own path. Be honest and truthful to yourself, you know what you know and what you don’t.