The technology security skills shortage is leaving firms at increasing risk of cyber security attacks, research has found.
The research, conducted by IT systems firm Robert Half Technology, has found a skills shortage in the security space is leaving firms exposed to cyber attacks.
Thirty four per cent of firms plan to increase their staff to respond to threats they are facing.
More than three-quarters of CIOs in the UK think security threats will increase over the next five years as a result of a lack of IT security talent.
Neil Owen, director at Robert Half Technology, said: “The prominence of cyber breaches has lifted the demand for cyber security experts as cyber risk becomes a company-wide point of discussion.
“An insufficient number of specialists entering the IT market has forced organisations to consider effective retention programmes, training existing staff, partnering with educational institutions and developing flexible hiring policies that include both permanent and contract specialists.”
Cloud security skills are the most sought after for IT firms but they are also the most challenging to find amongst potential candidates.
Initiatives such as the Cyber Security Challenge are aiming to scope out talent across the UK that could fill vacant security roles in organisations.
Earlier this year we reported how two-thirds of large businesses in the UK have been targeted by cyber attacks in the past year.