INE Resources
06/10/2025
INE
INE Security Alert: Research Shows Purple Team Skills Drive Job Security as Cybersecurity Pros Seek Career Stability
New research reveals that cybersecurity professionals with purple team capabilities – skills that blend offensive and defensive expertise – are in high demand, and have the potential to command salaries significantly higher than traditional specialists. The industry research findings, highlighted as part of INE Security's comprehensive study of career trends in cybersecurity, reinforce how industry professionals are adapting to both economic pressures and evolving threat landscapes by developing cross-functional skills that bridge traditional red team and blue team disciplines."We're seeing a fundamental shift in what makes cybersecurity professionals valuable," said Tracy Wallace, Director of Content Development at INE Security. "While the broader tech sector has lost over 300,000 jobs in the past two years, cybersecurity professionals with specialized purple team skills are not only keeping their positions – they’re actually advancing, thriving, and proving that they possess strong earning power."Research Findings Paint Clear PictureINE Security's analysis of current market conditions reveals several key trends driving the rise of purple team capabilities:Salary Premium: Purple team positions command salaries ranging from $57,000 to $186,000, representing an 18% premium over traditional single-discipline security roles, according to ZipRecruiter.Market Demand: Despite 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions globally, 64% of organizations cite skills gaps rather than headcount as their primary security challenge (2024 ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study).Career Advancement: Professionals with purple team experience show faster progression to senior and leadership roles, as organizations value comprehensive security understanding."When organizations face budget pressure, they keep the people who can handle multiple responsibilities,” Wallace explained. “Purple team professionals represent exactly that kind of versatility."Economic Uncertainty Drives Skill ConvergenceCybersecurity professionals are navigating an increasingly complex career landscape. While the broader technology sector faces layoffs and budget constraints, cybersecurity remains a growth area, albeit one with changing requirements.Current economic pressures and evolving threats are creating demand for cybersecurity professionals who understand both sides of the security equation. The 2024 ISC² Cybersecurity Workforce Study supports these findings, showing that nearly two-thirds of cybersecurity leaders (64%) believe that skills gaps can have a more negative impact than staffing shortages, and 90% currently have one or more skills gaps on their cybersecurity teams. "Economic turbulence has a way of separating essential highly specialized skills from nice-to-have specializations," Wallace noted. "Organizations under financial pressure need security staff who can adapt, collaborate, and deliver results regardless of resource constraints."Scarcity Creates Value in a Competitive MarketINE Security's analysis of current purple team job postings reveals consistent compensation patterns across major employers:Meta's Offensive Security Engineer, Purple Team: $117,000-$137,000 annually, plus a comprehensive benefits package (Washington, DC)KBR's Red Team Operator, Blue/Red Cooperative Operations: $80,700-$121,000 (Washington, DC)Kroll's Purple Team Specialist: $100,000-$140,000 (Remote positions available)JPMorgan Chase Purple Team Operator: $80,000-$120,000 (Dallas, TX)These positions represent a premium over traditional single-discipline security roles, with the limited supply of qualified candidates driving competitive compensation packages.Career Resiliency Through AdaptationINE Security's ongoing focus on cybersecurity career resilience has revealed that sustainable cybersecurity careers require continuous adaptation rather than static specialization. Purple team approaches provide a framework for ongoing learning that remains relevant regardless of how specific technologies or threats evolve.The research shows that professionals who develop purple team capabilities early in their careers demonstrate greater long-term earning potential and job satisfaction. These individuals often become the bridges between different organizational functions, making them indispensable during both growth and contraction phases."The most bulletproof careers are built on adaptability rather than narrow expertise," Wallace noted. "Purple teams teach you to think systematically about security challenges, communicate across disciplines, and adapt to new situations. Those capabilities transfer regardless of what specific technologies you're working with."About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and cybersecurity certifications. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s suite of learning paths and preparation for professional certifications offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training for cybersecurity jobs while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
06/09/2025
INE
Cross-Training: How Other Tech Skills Enhance Security
The most valuable cybersecurity professionals aren't just security experts—they're multi-skilled technologists who understand how security integrates with broader business and technical systems. This shift toward cybersecurity skill diversification is creating new opportunities for security professional development and career advancement.
06/03/2025
INE
CVEs vs. Misconfigs: Where Should You Focus Defense?
There's a hot debate happening in cybersecurity circles: Should we spend more time chasing CVEs or fixing misconfigurations? It's a fair question that gets to the heart of how we allocate our security resources. The short answer? We need both, and here's why.
06/02/2025
INE
Why Cyber Specialists Thrive During Economic Downturns
New INE Security Analysis Shows Targeted Cybersecurity Training Creates Career Stability in Uncertain TimesWhile tech giants have eliminated 300,000+ jobs over two years, cybersecurity professionals face a different reality. Organizations desperately need cybersecurity talent, yet many positions remain unfilled -- not from lack of demand, but because employers won't settle for candidates without specialized skills. This creates a unique opportunity: professionals who invest in targeted cybersecurity education and security certifications can build recession-proof careers while others struggle.INE Security, a leading provider of cybersecurity training and certifications, analyzed this market dynamic and found that specialization doesn't just improve job prospects, it multiplies career value exponentially."Specialization in cybersecurity creates a career insurance policy that generalists simply can't match," explains Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security. "While general IT professionals compete on price and availability, specialists compete on unique value. When you're one of the few professionals in your region who can architect zero-trust implementations or perform advanced mobile pentesting, you're not just employed – you're essential."The Math That Matters: Why Specialization PaysThe U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 33% growth for information security analysts through 2033, which is ten times faster than the average occupation. But despite 87% of companies reporting cybersecurity skill gaps (McKinsey & Company), many are willing to wait for the right candidates rather than hire generalists.This creates a mathematical advantage for specialists. When hundreds apply for general IT roles, specialized positions like mobile security pentester or cloud architect often struggle to find even five qualified candidates. That scarcity translates directly into negotiating power and compensation opportunities.The $4.88 Million QuestionWith the average cybersecurity breach spiking 10% over the last year to $4.88 million (IBM Ponemon Institute), organizations can't afford mediocre security. They need specialists who can prevent, detect, and respond to threats immediately. Since 68% of breaches involve human elements like social engineering, according to Verizon’s 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report, employers seek professionals who understand both technical vulnerabilities and human behavior patterns.This urgency explains why 91% of hiring managers prefer certified candidates (Fortinet) and why specialized roles command premium rates:Penetration Testing: The global pentesting market will grow from $2.74 billion to $6.25 billion by 2032. Certified pentesters with hands-on experience often earn double general security salaries (Fortune Business Insights).Mobile Security: With 38% of mobile apps containing high-risk vulnerabilities, mobile security specialists are in extreme demand but short supply (Positive Technologies).Incident Response: Specialists command emergency rates exceeding $750/hour because when breaches happen, organizations need immediate expertise, not someone learning on the job (Industry Research).<br />The Certification Advantage: Real NumbersProfessional certifications create measurable career advantages beyond just knowledge validation. Gallup research shows 81% of Americans with professional certifications are employed versus 68% without them. In cybersecurity, this advantage amplifies because security certifications prove competency in high-stakes scenarios.From foundational credentials like Sec+ to advanced pentester certifications, the progression path is clear. Career advancement opportunities expand dramatically with specialized certifications. This motivation helps combat feelings of career stagnation that contribute to burnout, an increasingly critical problem within the cybersecurity industry. But certifications alone aren't enough—employers increasingly demand proven practical experience.Beyond Paper: Why Hands-On Training Multiplies ValueThe business case is compelling: well-trained cybersecurity teams generate $70,000 in annual savings and 10% productivity increases (IBM). Organizations recognize this ROI, which explains why 67% prefer team members with certifications - they validate both knowledge and practical capability (Fortinet).Modern cybersecurity education leverages cyber ranges and virtual labs that simulate real attack scenarios. This allows professionals to practice incident response, penetration testing, and threat analysis without risking production systems. The result? Professionals who can demonstrate actual competency rather than just theoretical knowledge.Real-World Application: The eMAPT ExampleINE Security's enhanced Mobile Application Penetration Tester (eMAPT) certification exemplifies this integrated approach. Beyond advanced mobile security methodologies, the program includes extensive hands-on exercises in dedicated cyber ranges that replicate real mobile application infrastructures. Through June 24, 2025, learners can save $200 on the eMAPT certification and gain access to INE Security’s updated Mobile Application Penetration Testing Learning Path.Learners practice iOS and Android security assessment against actual vulnerabilities in controlled environments. This combination of security certifications and practical lab experience addresses the core employer demand: verifiable expertise backed by demonstrated capability.The Ultimate Career Insurance PolicyThe cybersecurity profession rewards those who invest in continuous learning through specialized training. The combination of recognized security certifications, hands-on laboratory experience, and practical skill application creates professionals who thrive regardless of economic conditions.While traditional IT training paths may offer broader options, cybersecurity education provides something more valuable: career resilience in an increasingly uncertain world. As threats evolve and breach costs climb, organizations will continue prioritizing specialists who can deliver immediate value.About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and cybersecurity certifications. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
05/30/2025
INE
INE Security Alert: $16.6 Billion in Cyber Losses Underscore Critical Need for Advanced Security Training
New FBI Data Reveals Organizations Need Deeper Technical Expertise to Detect, Contain, and Remediate Advanced AttacksThe FBI's latest Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Report reveals a stark reality: cybercriminals extracted a record $16.6 billion from victims in 2024, representing a 33% increase over the previous year. While these losses include both individual and organizational victims, the enterprise-focused attacks highlighted in the report underscore a critical skills gap. INE Security, a global leader in cybersecurity training and certification, is emphasizing the urgent need for technical cybersecurity professionals who can detect, analyze, and neutralize threats once they've bypassed initial defenses.The Technical Challenge Behind the NumbersWhile the FBI report captures the financial damage, the underlying technical reality is more complex:Ransomware Evolution: The 18% surge in critical infrastructure attack, led by sophisticated variants like Akira, LockBit, and RansomHub, demonstrates that modern ransomware operators are using advanced techniques including lateral movement, privilege escalation, and data exfiltration that require specialized detection and response skills.Post-Compromise Detection: The $2.77 billion in Business Email Compromise losses, which primarily target organizations, represent successful attacks that evaded initial security controls. Organizations need security professionals trained in forensic analysis, network traffic analysis, and incident response to identify and contain these threats after they've gained initial access.Cryptocurrency Attack Complexity: The 66% spike in cryptocurrency fraud ($9.3 billion total) includes attacks on both individual and organizational victims, but reflects increasingly sophisticated blockchain analysis requirements and the need for security teams trained in cryptocurrency forensics and threat hunting methodologies.INE Security's Technical Training Response"While the FBI report captures losses across all victim types, the enterprise-focused attacks demonstrate that organizations face increasingly sophisticated threats that require advanced defensive capabilities," said Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security. "Organizations need security professionals with hands-on technical skills to hunt threats, analyze malware, and respond to incidents with deep technical expertise."INE Security's enterprise training programs address the post-breach reality through:Advanced Threat Detection Labs: Hands-on training with current CVEs and attack techniques, enabling security teams to recognize and analyze the specific TTPs (Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures) used by ransomware groups and advanced persistent threats.Incident Response and Forensics Training: Practical skills in malware analysis, memory forensics, and network traffic analysis that enable rapid threat identification and containment once attackers have gained access.Threat Hunting Methodologies: Proactive detection techniques that help security teams identify compromise indicators before attacks reach their intended objectives.Industry-Specific Attack Simulation: Customized training environments that replicate the specific threats facing manufacturing, healthcare, government, and financial sectors—the industries most heavily targeted according to the FBI data.The Skills Gap RealityThe FBI report's emphasis on successful Operation Level Up, which saved victims $285.6 million through proactive identification, underscores the value of skilled security professionals who can proactively hunt threats and analyze complex attack patterns."The difference between a $10,000 security incident and a $10 million breach often comes down to detection speed and response capability," emphasized Warn. "Organizations with certified security professionals trained in advanced technical skills detect threats in hours rather than months.”Enterprise Training That Addresses Real ThreatsINE Security's enterprise programs are designed around the technical realities revealed in the FBI report:Malware Analysis Training: Hands-on experience with current ransomware families and attack techniquesNetwork Security Monitoring: Advanced skills in detecting lateral movement and data exfiltrationCryptocurrency Forensics: Specialized training in blockchain analysis and cryptocurrency threat huntingCustom Threat Simulation: Industry-specific attack scenarios based on actual threat intelligenceFor organizations looking to build the technical security capabilities needed to combat the sophisticated threats highlighted in the FBI IC3 report, INE Security offers customized enterprise training solutions. Schedule a demo to discuss how advanced security training can strengthen your organization's detection and response capabilities.About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and cybersecurity certifications. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is trusted by Fortune 500 companies worldwide for their cybersecurity training needs, and by IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity education and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
05/29/2025
INE
Building a Continuous Learning Plan for Cybersecurity
In an industry where 52% of security professionals report their skills become partially outdated every 12-18 months (CompTIA), continuous learning isn't just a career enhancer—it's a career requirement. Creating a structured approach to cybersecurity professional development has become essential for long-term success in the field.
05/28/2025
INE
INE Security and RedTeam Hacker Academy Announce Partnership to Advance Cybersecurity Skills in the Middle East
INE Security, a global cybersecurity training and certification provider, today announced a strategic partnership with RedTeam Hacker Academy through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement significantly accelerates INE Security's expansion strategy in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region while enhancing cybersecurity training capabilities across the market.The agreement was formalized at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with the signing ceremony attended by Jaizal Ali, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of RedTeam Hacker Academy, and Brett Erskine, Chief Revenue Officer of INE Security. This partnership represents a shared commitment to addressing the growing cybersecurity skills gap and empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals in the region."Our partnership marks a significant step forward in INE Security's continued growth and expansion in the Middle East," said Brett Erskine, Chief Revenue Officer at INE Security. "RedTeam Hacker Academy, under the visionary leadership of Founder and CEO Jaizal Ali, has built an impressive and well-respected cybersecurity brand dedicated to providing exceptional cybersecurity education. We are confident that this alliance will significantly strengthen RedTeam Hacker Academy's cyber offerings. Additionally, it will play a crucial role in establishing INE Security's market leadership and sustained growth throughout the region.”Jaizal Ali, CEO of RedTeam Hacker Academy, welcomed the collaboration: "We are honored to partner with INE Security, the industry's premier technical training provider. This partnership enables RedTeam Hacker Academy to leverage INE Security's world-class resources and global expertise, allowing us to deliver even more comprehensive cybersecurity education. Together, we will provide unparalleled training solutions that meet the highest industry standards."This partnership represents a pivotal milestone in INE Security's ambitious growth strategy for the MEA region. Through this collaboration, INE Security will deliver:Expanded local expertise through RedTeam Hacker Academy's regional knowledgeComprehensive cybersecurity training programs for individuals, organizations, and government entities throughout the region that combine global best practices with regional insightsEnhanced market penetration across the MEA regionStrengthened brand presence in key Middle Eastern marketsStrategic positioning for future growth opportunities in the regionThe partnership reinforces INE Security's commitment to providing world-class cybersecurity education while addressing the critical skills gap in the region. Through this collaboration, INE Security and RedTeam Hacker Academy will help organizations across the Middle East and Africa better protect their digital assets while creating pathways to rewarding cybersecurity careers for local talent. Both organizations are committed to making this partnership a cornerstone of cybersecurity excellence in the region. To learn more about becoming an INE Security partner, visit our partnership page. About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online cybersecurity training and industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications. Harnessing the world's most powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security's suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across penetration testing, ethical hacking, and advanced cybersecurity disciplines. The company is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in a cybersecurity career.About RedTeam Hacker AcademyFounded and led by CEO Jaizal Ali, RedTeam Hacker Academy is a distinguished cybersecurity education institution committed to delivering world-class cybersecurity training. The academy has built a strong reputation for its innovative approach to cybersecurity education, providing comprehensive programs that prepare professionals to address contemporary security challenges.
05/27/2025
INE
INE Security Partners with Abadnet Institute for Cybersecurity Training Programs in Saudi Arabia
INE Security, a global leader in Cybersecurity training and certifications, has announced a strategic partnership with Abadnet Institute for Training, a Riyadh-based leader in specialized Information Technology, Cybersecurity, and Networking training. The collaboration leverages INE Security's internationally recognized cybersecurity training content and Abadnet's established presence in the Saudi Arabian market to deliver comprehensive cybersecurity education programs across the region.This partnership aligns INE Security's advanced technical training resources with Abadnet Institute's mission to develop the next generation of cybersecurity professionals through world-class, hands-on training. Established in 2007, Abadnet Institute serves over 10,000 learners annually through internationally accredited programs designed to support both individual career advancement and organizational workforce development, including comprehensive cybersecurity training, security certifications, and pentester career preparation.Through this collaboration, INE Security is supporting Abadnet's specialized bootcamps with Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) content, hands-on labs, and other cybersecurity certification preparation, including pathways to CompTIA Sec+ qualification. The partnership has already launched its first successful academy, consisting of 200 students, with all available licenses being fully subscribed."We're excited to partner with Abadnet Institute, a recognized leader in IT and Cybersecurity education with strong brand recognition across Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC region," said Brett Erskine, Chief Revenue Officer at INE Security. "This strategic partnership enables learners to access practical, career-advancing cybersecurity skills and industry-recognized credentials. Together, we're helping individuals and organizations build real-world, job-ready capabilities in penetration testing and ethical hacking, which are in high demand across the region.""Abadnet Institute is pleased to collaborate with INE Security, recognizing the exceptional quality and depth of their cybersecurity training materials," said Ahmed Alkathiri, Chief Operations Officer at Abadnet Training Institute and distinguished cybersecurity expert holding multiple INE Security certifications, including eCPPT, eWPT, and eJPT. "As someone who has personally experienced the transformative value of INE Security's training programs throughout my successful 15-year career in cybersecurity, I'm particularly excited about this partnership. It enhances our ability to deliver cutting-edge, internationally recognized cybersecurity training to our students, further strengthening our position as a leading provider of technical education in the Kingdom.""The integration of INE Security's eJPT content into our specialized bootcamps represents a significant enhancement to our cybersecurity education curriculum," added Ahmed Fatouh, Head of Cyber Security Department at Abadnet Institute for Training. "As lifelong learners and passionate teachers, we are committed to providing our students with the most relevant, hands-on cybersecurity training experiences that prepare them for successful careers as penetration testers and ethical hackers. This partnership with INE Security allows us to deliver on that commitment at an even higher level."The collaboration is part of INE Security's strategic investment in the region, designed to bolster the growing digital employment ecosystem and support the development of highly skilled cybersecurity professionals who will contribute significantly to the Kingdom's economy and digital security infrastructure.Learn more about INE Security for your organization.About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online cybersecurity training and certification. Harnessing the world's most powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security's suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across penetration testing, ethical hacking, and advanced cybersecurity disciplines. The company is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in a cybersecurity career.About Abadnet Institute for Training: Established in 2007, Abadnet Institute for Training is a Riyadh, Saudi Arabia-based leader in specialized Information Technology, Cybersecurity, and Networking training. The institute provides internationally accredited, hands-on programs to over 10,000 learners annually, supporting both individual career advancement and organizational workforce development. With a strong reputation across the GCC region, Abadnet Institute is committed to developing the next generation of technical professionals through world-class, practical education.
05/21/2025
INE
INE Security Alert: Leveraging Cybersecurity Certifications to Drive Career Advancement
INE Security, a global leader in cybersecurity training and certifications, has released guidance for cybersecurity professionals on leveraging cybersecurity certifications as powerful tools to secure interviews and career advancement opportunities. With 64% of security professionals experiencing burnout (Tines State of Mental Health in Cybersecurity 2023), practitioners need practical strategies to advance their cybersecurity careers, secure appropriate compensation, and build sustainable professional paths in an industry where their skills are in critical demand."Certifications serve two critical roles: they act as door openers that get your resume noticed, and they can be the deciding factor that gets employers to invite you for an interview,” says Jamie Kahgee, Vice President of Technology for INE Security. “When used strategically, certifications can be the key differentiator that elevates a candidate’s compensation package.” Research demonstrates that cybersecurity certifications provide significant advantages in securing interview opportunities:Security professionals with industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications who effectively showcase these qualifications are more likely to get interviewed. A recent Fortinet study reports that 91% of respondents prefer to hire candidates with professional certifications, and 67% of organizations prefer their team members or direct reports to be certified.<br />Organizations facing critical security skills gaps actively seek certified professionals. Candidates with relevant certifications consistently receive more interview invitations across all experience levels.<br />Organizations that invest in employee training and certification paths see better retention. Professionals are 42% more likely to stay with an organization that invests in improving their skills through training and certification support (IBM).“Certified professionals tend to have a better concept for foundational impact with problems, which can be vital for debugging existing issues, defining the base to build off of, and understanding best practices and industry standards to apply,” says Kahgee. “All things being equal, when you're comparing candidates side by side, seeing that someone has been certified gives you some peace of mind that they actually know what they're talking about. This is especially important when considering newcomers who haven't built up much work experience yet."This guidance is part of INE Security's broad commitment to cybersecurity career resilience, designed to empower cybersecurity professionals and guide organizations in developing, retaining, and future-proofing their security teams. Resources released as part of this initiative provide teams and practitioners with strategies for sustainable career development in a field where burnout and rapid job transitions are common.“With 80% of organizations experiencing breaches attributable to skills gaps, certified security professionals who are able to demonstrate real-world capabilities have a strong advantage in locking in the interview for cybersecurity positions,” says Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security. “Cybersecurity certifications represent verified expertise that directly addresses specific critical skills gaps. Candidates can and should use them as the foundation for getting their foot in the door.”Turning Certifications into Career Leverage The cybersecurity industry's ever-shifting landscape demands professionals who can demonstrate current, relevant expertise. Cybersecurity certifications serve as powerful credentials that validate skills and provide concrete qualifications that help resumes stand out. By strategically highlighting how certifications address specific organizational needs and industry challenges, candidates can significantly increase their chances of securing interviews that lead to rewarding career opportunities.To learn more about how partnering with INE Security can elevate your career, visit security.ine.com<br />About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and certification. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
05/14/2025
INE
INE Security Alert: Continuous CVE Practice Closes Critical Gap Between Vulnerability Alerts and Effective Defense
INE Security, a global leader in hands-on cybersecurity training and certifications, today highlighted how ongoing real-world practice with the latest CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) is essential for transforming security teams from reactive to proactive defenders.With over 26,000 new CVEs documented in the past year, security teams are drowning in vulnerability alerts while facing exploit windows that have compressed to hours in many cases."Reading CVE bulletins is not the same as knowing how to stop the attack," said Dara Warn, CEO at INE Security. "Our Skill Dive platform gives practitioners hands-on experience with real vulnerabilities in contained environments, cutting incident response times when these same issues hit production. This practical approach delivers far more value than traditional security certifications alone."Skill Dive is INE Security's risk-free technical environment featuring exclusive labs not found in learning paths and courses. Skill Dive’s Vulnerabilities Lab Collection offers a continuously updated library of labs specifically designed to provide hands-on practice with actual CVEs, allowing security practitioners, including those preparing for pentester certifications, to experience both the exploitation and mitigation of current real-world threats in a safe environment.CVEs: From Bulletin to DefenseCVEs are the standard identifiers for known vulnerabilities, but many security teams struggle to implement effective mitigations at scale, even those with Sec+ and other entry-level certifications.Common challenges include:Risk prioritization across hundreds of monthly CVEsTesting mitigations without impacting productionAdapting defenses to diverse system configurationsBuilding response muscle memory that works under pressureGetting ahead of the threat curve instead of constantly reactingPractice Today's Threats. Prevent Tomorrow's Breaches.INE Security’s Skill Dive Vulnerabilities Lab Collection delivers:Exclusive vulnerability labs not available in standard security trainingMonthly CVE updates focusing on high-impact vulnerabilitiesIsolated practice environment for both offensive and defensive techniquesComplete severity coverage from critical zero-days to common misconfigurationsPractical exploitation and defense experience that transfers directly to production incidents"When a critical CVE drops, you don't have time to theorize," said Tracy Wallace, Director of Content at INE Security. "Teams with hands-on practice respond significantly faster because they've seen similar attack patterns before. Log4Shell (CVE-2021-44228) was a perfect example – practitioners who had experience with JNDI injection attacks were able to implement effective mitigations within hours, while others took days or even weeks to fully remediate."Real Benefits for Security TeamsSkill Dive delivers immediate advantages for practitioners:Develop attack pattern recognition that speeds incident responseUnderstand attack chains beyond what bulletins describePractice team coordination for high-pressure security eventsIdentify defensive gaps before attackers find themBuild skills that directly translate to career advancementSecOps teams, security analysts, and IT admins get exactly what certification courses miss: hands-on practice with real-world vulnerabilities."Security professionals who regularly drill on current vulnerabilities become exponentially more valuable to their organizations," said Wallace. "The best defenders understand both the attack and defense sides of the equation."High-Impact CVEs in the Skill Dive CollectionThe platform features hands-on labs for the most actively exploited vulnerabilities in enterprise environments, including:OpenMetadata Authentication Bypass (CVE-2024-28255): Exploit the target machine running OpenMetadata by bypassing the authentication and gaining remote code execution (RCE)Calibre RCE (CVE-2024-6782): Exploit the remote code execution vulnerability in Calibre, leading to unauthorized system accessLog4Shell (CVE-2021-44228): Practice identifying and remediating this critical remote code execution vulnerability that continues to plague Java applications across multiple sectorsSpring4Shell (CVE-2022-22965): Gain hands-on experience with this widely exploited RCE vulnerability affecting Spring Framework applications"We continuously track which vulnerabilities are most actively exploited," said Wallace. "Our collection prioritizes CVEs with the highest real-world impact, not just theoretical severity ratings."Proactive Security Through Deliberate PracticeThe Skill Dive approach includes:Monthly updates aligned with emerging threat patternsRealistic environments mirroring production systemsPractical documentation focused on effective mitigationsContinuous evolution based on real-world attack trendsRecent lab additions include other top-exploited vulnerabilities such as Cacti Import Packages RCE (CVE-2024-25641), Gradio Path Traversal (CVE-2024-1561), Calibre Arbitrary File Read (CVE-2024-6781), Graylog Information Exposure (CVE-2024-24824), and Navidrome SQL Injection (CVE-2024-47062). "Security teams that regularly practice with new vulnerabilities stop more breaches, period," said Wallace. "Practice transforms defense from constant firefighting into strategic advantage."AvailabilityIndividual subscriptions to Skill Dive are available now. Enterprise packages for team training are also available.For more information, visit ine.com/cyber-rangesAbout INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and cybersecurity certifications. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity. The company is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
INE Webcasts
Browse all of webcasts about popular IT topics, industry trends, and more.
INE Webcasts
