#CyberSecMonth: Cybersecurity Month 2025

 

October is a key moment in the digital security calendar. For 13 years in Europe, the European Cybersecurity Month (ECSM) has been promoted by ENISA, while in the U.S., the Cybersecurity Awareness Month celebrates its 22nd edition. Both initiatives aim to raise awareness of cyber threats and promote best practices in data protection—for organizations and individuals alike.

Cybersecurity in 2025: Human-Centric, AI-Enhanced Threats

This year's edition of ECSM is held under the slogan #ThinkB4UClick , with a focus on the human factor – highlighting the skills gap, supporting safe internet use, and promoting behavioural change to foster a culture of cybersecurity. Particular emphasis is placed on the growing number of phishing attacks enhanced by artificial intelligence, as well as addressing the shortage of cybersecurity professionals. Security education for professionals and awareness programmes are more important today than ever before.

https://www.enisa.europa.eu/news/off-the-hook-dont-be-phished-this-cybersecurity-month

Top Cybersecurity Challenges in 2025

1. AI-Enhanced Phishing Attacks
   Cybercriminals are using generative AI to craft highly convincing phishing messages, making detection harder and increasing the success rate of attacks.

2. Human Factor Vulnerabilities
   Social engineering remains a major threat. Users are still the weakest link in security chains due to lack of awareness or risky behavior online.

3. Cybersecurity Skills Gap
   There is a growing shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals, especially in areas like cloud security, incident response, and threat intelligence.

4. Behavioral Change & Culture Building
   Organizations struggle to instill a culture of cybersecurity. Changing user behavior and promoting secure habits is a long-term challenge.

5. Remote Work & Hybrid Environments
   Securing distributed workforces and personal devices continues to be complex, especially with increased reliance on cloud services.

6. Data Privacy & Compliance
   Navigating evolving regulations (e.g., GDPR, NIS2) and ensuring data protection across borders is increasingly demanding.

Essential Cybersecurity Competencies for 2025

1. Security Awareness
   Skills and knowledge gained through awareness programs that reduce human error and improve phishing detection.

2. AI & Threat Intelligence
   Understanding how AI is used in both attack and defense, and being able to analyze and respond to AI-driven threats.

3. Cloud Security
   Skills in securing cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), including identity management, encryption, and compliance.

4. Incident Detection & Response
   Proficiency in monitoring, analyzing, and responding to security incidents in real time.

5. Ethical Hacking & Penetration Testing
   Hands-on skills to identify vulnerabilities before attackers do.

6. Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC)
   Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and the ability to align security policies with business objectives.

Compendium Centrum Edukacyjne – Your Cybersecurity Partner

Selected courses that can support your organization include:

ISC2 CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional

One of the most globally recognized courses and certifications for cybersecurity professionals. CISSP provides a comprehensive framework for managing and securing IT systems, covering domains such as risk management, identity and access control, cryptography, and security architecture. Ideal for senior security roles and leadership positions.

 

ISC2 CCSP – Certified Cloud Security Professional

Focused on cloud security architecture, governance, and compliance. CCSP is essential for professionals securing cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP) and managing cloud-based risk. It bridges technical expertise with regulatory understanding—critical in today’s hybrid and multi-cloud setups.

 

CompTIA Security+

A foundational course for those entering the cybersecurity field. It covers core principles of network security, threat management, and risk mitigation. Security+ is often the first step toward a career in cybersecurity and is aligned with current industry standards.

 

EC-Council CEH – Certified Ethical Hacker

A hands-on course that teaches how to think and act like a hacker >>> ethically!. CEH equips professionals with tools and techniques to identify vulnerabilities and simulate cyberattacks, helping organizations strengthen their defenses proactively.

 

EC-Council CSA – Certified SOC Analyst

Designed for entry-level SOC analysts, CSA focuses on monitoring, detecting, and responding to security incidents. It’s a practical certification for those working in Security Operations Centers and dealing with real-time threat intelligence.

 

OffSec PEN-200 – Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

A rigorous, hands-on penetration testing course combine with OSCP certification. PEN-200 teaches advanced ethical hacking techniques, exploit development, and network pivoting. It’s highly respected for its practical exam and real-world relevance.

 

Mile2 C)AICSO – Certified Artificial Intelligence Cybersecurity Officer

A forward-looking course and certification that blends cybersecurity with AI. C)AICSO prepares professionals to understand and mitigate AI-driven threats, secure AI systems, and apply machine learning responsibly in security contexts.

 

October is the perfect time to upskill. Explore our training offer https://www.compendium.pl/training-catalog/  and in particular guaranteed-to-run cybersecurity training sessions and more - and join the organizations that prioritize education and resilience.