Cyber Security Degree Programme
When theory becomes reality: cybersecurity in real-world conditions
What happens when an abstract threat suddenly turns into a real-life emergency? This is precisely the question that students on the Master’s degree programme Cyber Security at FH Salzburg must address as part of a comprehensive crisis management exercise.
Practising attack and defence
The so-called ‘Attack-Defence Simulation’ in the third semester is a key highlight of the new Master’s degree programme in Cyber Security. Twenty students, divided into seven teams, were given five hours during the first edition of the event to tackle a complex and realistic attack scenario. This was by no means just a matter of technical expertise. What was required was a holistic view of cybersecurity, combining analysis, strategy and communication. At the heart of the task was the complete reconstruction of the attack chain: from the initial intrusion into the system right through to the leakage of sensitive data. The teams identified so-called indicators of compromise, created robust timelines and developed concrete measures to contain the attack and minimise future risks.
Preparing for management decisions
However, the technical analysis was only part of the challenge. The key was to present the results in a way that was understandable and relevant to decision-making. In a final presentation, the students had to present their findings to a high-profile crisis management team – including Dominik Engel, Rector of the University of Applied Sciences. What was required were clear statements rather than technical jargon, well-founded risk assessments and concrete options for action. Another key aspect was dealing with legal and organisational requirements. Compliance with data protection regulations, in particular the reporting obligations under the GDPR, played just as important a role as structured documentation and communication with the authorities in the event of an emergency.
“Successful action in a crisis requires a combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, an understanding of regulatory frameworks and communication skills. It is precisely this holistic perspective that makes our graduates particularly valuable.”
Andreas Unterweger · Programme Director, Cyber Security
The magazine of FH Salzburg
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