Name: Shinji Abe
Title: Director
Employer: NTT Security (Japan) KK
Degree: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science in Quantum Physics
Years in IT: 11
Years in cybersecurity: 7
Cybersecurity certifications: CISSP
How did you decide upon a career in cybersecurity?
I started my career as a system engineer. I became involved in information security after some systems managed that I was managing received vulnerability assessments. That was when I realized the importance of cybersecurity. I moved to the security analysis team to focus on security works in 2011.
Why did you get your CISSP®?
In the beginning of my cybersecurity career, I learned cybersecurity through self-study. However, I wanted to understand in a comprehensive and systematic fashion and to prove my skills. CISSP is the one of the best certifications to achieve that.
What is a typical day like for you?
I work in a SOC (Security Operation Center). I analyze logs or malware, and research threat information. I work with security engineers and analysts. One of my most important duties is building a team to further improve our organizational capabilities. The scope of the SOC is wide, covering network, endpoint, cloud, IoT, etc. I am committed to strengthening our defenses on the cyber space.
Can you tell us about a personal career highlight?
One of the highlights of my career is receiving the (ISC)2 ISLA Asia-Pacific recognition in the Senior Information Security Professional category. This was a great opportunity to improve the recognition of my participation in "ISOG-J" (Information Security Operation providers Group Japan) and "SOCYETI" for people who belong to SOC in Japan. I am deeply honored by this award.
How has the CISSP certification helped you in your career?
Through studying the CISSP CBK®, I have learned a wide range of cybersecurity knowledge. I've been able to consider security issues theoretically and communicate with stakeholders more constructively. This has led me to gain trust and to succeed in business.
What is the most useful advice you have for other security professionals?
Widen the circle of trust. It would be difficult and inefficient to secure world on your own. We all have to help each other out. Compensate for a weaker partner or member with your performance. That is a cybersecurity professional. How do you gain trust? The CISSP certification is one of the solutions!