Cybercrime Specialist: Job Description, Salary & Certification

<p>Cybercrime specialists are experts in network security matters related to fraud and crime. They work for law enforcement, consulting firms, or private companies advising on security protocols, control mechanisms, and risk assessments for computer networks. They might also assist in uncovering and documenting evidence of specific crimes. Read the table below for more details about this profession. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Degree Required</b> </td><td> Bachelor's degree</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Field of Study</b> </td><td> Computer engineering, information technology, information security or related</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Certification </b> </td><td> Preferred by some employers. Commonly CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Skills</b> </td><td> Communication, problem solving, analytical skills, computer programming basics</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Median Annual Income (2020)</b> </td><td> $103,590 (for all information security analysts)*</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Career Outlook (2020-2030)</b> </td><td> 33% (for all information security analysts)*</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics </i></p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreTheResponsibilitiesOfACybercrimeSpecialist">What Are The Responsibilities of a Cybercrime Specialist?</h3> <p>To effectively prevent and fight fraud, the most important responsibility of cybercrime specialists is to be well informed of the most common cybercriminal tactics and threats. Because the landscape is ever evolving, cybercrime specialists have an obligation to constantly upgrade both their technical and criminal behavior expertise. Depending on the type of employer they work for, they may be tasked with uncovering, documenting, and reporting on evidence of specific crimes, or advising on the development of new fraud prevention systems and protocols. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreTheCertificationOptions">What Are The Certification Options?</h3> <p>Completing a certification is highly recommended to pursue a career in this field. As a role that requires a great amount of technical and industry-specific expertise, employers value and in some cases require proof of the technical background required. Over 70 different certifications related to cybersecurity exist, the most popular and well-known being the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) offered by ISC2. For a specific focus on cybercrime detection and investigation, you might also consider the McAfee Institute's Certified Expert in Cyber Investigations (CECI). </p> <h3 id="section---WhatShouldIStudy">What Should I Study?</h3> <p>Success as a cybercrime analyst relies on your grasp of basic computer programming and IT concepts. To develop this foundational knowledge, you should generally have a bachelor's degree in computer science, information security, or information technology. As the demand for this field continues to grow, many universities have developed cybersecurity-specific advanced degrees covering different competencies (including cybercrime detection and investigation). </p> <h3 id="section---HowDoILandMyFirstJobInCybersecurity">How Do I Land My First Job in Cybersecurity?</h3> <p>Landing your first job in cybersecurity will depend on the depth and breath of your knowledge. Beyond the education and certifications already mentioned, many online courses and videos exist to keep you informed on the latest trends in fighting cybercrime. This knowledge will be key in your first interview, as will the strength of your network. Meet leaders in the field and get your name out there by joining professional associations or attending cybersecurity events. </p> <h3 id="section---HowMuchDoCybercrimeSpecialistsMake">How Much Do Cybercrime Specialists Make?</h3> <p>The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks salary information for all information security analysts, including cybercrime specialists, under the same category. In 2020, the median pay for this category was $103,590. With the growing instances of cybercrimes and demand for better security, the BLS also estimates the growth in this field at a much faster than average rate of 33% between 2020 and 2030.</p>