#United States #Cybersecurity #Alexandria #ISC2 #Incident Response

ISC2 Launches Threat Handling Foundations Certificate

In a significant move for the cybersecurity profession, ISC2 has unveiled its latest educational offering—the Threat Handling Foundations Certificate. This certification aims to equip cybersecurity professionals with essential skills in incident response, digital forensics, and effective situational management across cyber incidents.

A recent study by ISC2 highlighted alarming statistics regarding the skills gap within the cybersecurity workforce. About 60% of professionals admitted that their organizations are hindered by a lack of necessary skills, particularly in digital forensics and incident response (DFIR). Furthermore, 25% indicated that their teams lack sufficient DFIR experience to adequately protect against cyber threats. The new certification responds directly to these challenges, reflecting a growing need for enhanced training within the industry.

As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, organizations are urged to prioritize ongoing skills development among their cybersecurity teams. Casey Marks, ISC2’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasized, "As threat actors exploit emerging technologies, it is imperative that organizations invest in continuous skill development. Having a robust incident response framework will not only help mitigate these evolving threats but also provide cybersecurity professionals with valuable career advancement opportunities."

Course Structure and Requirements

The Threat Handling Foundations Certificate offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. To earn this certificate, participants must complete four on-demand courses totaling 13 hours. Each course focuses on a critical component of cybersecurity preparedness:
1. Foundations of Digital Forensics (New) - Fundamental skills required for digital investigations.
2. Network Threat Hunting (New) - Intermediate skills aimed at identifying and addressing network threats.
3. Building a Digital Forensics and Incident Response Program (New) - Advanced skills for establishing effective incident response mechanisms.
4. Incident Management Preparation and Response (Launched February 2025) - Advanced-level training focusing on managing incidents effectively.

Upon successful completion, participants earn continuing professional education (CPE) credits. ISC2 members receive a 20% discount on course fees, reinforcing the organization's commitment to supporting its community of over 265,000 certified professionals.

Importance of the Certificate

ISC2’s announcement is timely as organizations in various sectors grapple with increasing cyber challenges. By fostering a deeper understanding of incident management and digital forensics, the Threat Handling Foundations Certificate prepares professionals to navigate the complexities of the cybersecurity landscape. This proactive approach enhances not only individual skill sets but also the overall security posture of organizations.

The certificate aligns with prominent frameworks, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 and the NCSC Cyber Assessment Framework, providing a strategic roadmap for IT professionals to enhance their readiness and response capabilities in an ever-evolving threat environment.

In conclusion, the ISC2 Threat Handling Foundations Certificate represents a vital step in closing skills gaps within the cybersecurity workforce. As cyber threats continue to evolve, equipping professionals with the necessary tools to manage incidents effectively becomes crucial. For more details and information on enrollment, visit ISC2's official website and take the first step toward elevating your cybersecurity career.