Cyber-Securing Super Bowl 50: What Can a Live-Fire Football Match Teach Students about Becoming Better Cybersecurity Professionals?

摘要

The rise and regularity of cybersecurity incidents have increased the demand for trained workforce professionals. Institutions of higher education have responded by including practical hands-on exercises such as capstones, labs, and simulated attack-and-defend 'Capture-the-Flag' scenarios. Many degree programs also encourage students to gain experience via internships. This paper considers real-world experience gained by students through another means-by assisting law enforcement personnel in defending Super Bowl 50 cyberspace. This annual game, with high security requirements and international prominence, provided a unique opportunity to reflect whether 'live-fire' experiences can improve technical and professional skill sets of students who are emerging from higher-education into the workforce.