According to Statista, e-commerce sales in the United States reached over $360 billion in 2016, thanks to online retailers like Amazon and eBay. With the help of mobile apps and websites, users can conveniently buy things using their credit cards. To keep personal information safe, mathematical algorithms are used to secure these transactions and prevent cybercriminals from getting access to it. This field of creating and implementing algorithms is called cryptography, and it involves mathematics, computer science, and information security.

Professionals interested in these fields might want to learn cryptography and pursue a career in the blockchain industry, which offers an increasingly diverse range of crypto jobs. Recent graduates pursuing a career as a cryptographer can earn an average annual salary of $104,500 depending on the organization and job location, according to Glassdoor. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies cryptographers as mathematicians and statisticians. Professionals following this career trajectory have many opportunities, with projected employment growth of 33 percent between 2016 and 2026, compared with the national average of 7 percent.

Working In Cryptography

Cryptographers create algorithms and keys to encrypt data. Many cryptography professionals deal with attacks from external sources. In 2018, the average cost of a data breach for US businesses was $7.91 million, according to Statista. To avoid these expensive breaches, cryptographers constantly develop new mathematical formulas to protect confidential information from outside attackers.

Cryptographers work in various sectors, such as the military, government, and large private companies. The rise of cybercrime has opened up opportunities for cryptographers in small and medium organizations. These organizations seek computer science professionals who can develop secure systems to protect their data from unauthorized access.

Cryptography professionals analyze security systems for vulnerabilities targeted by attackers. They use mathematics and computer coding to strengthen encryption as they identify weaknesses. Cryptographers assist in identifying and testing new technologies like cryptocurrencies. If an encryption technology is suitable, they can implement it and evaluate its implementation, reviewing and identifying weaknesses.

What You Need To Be Proficient In Cryptography

Cryptology professionals need a specific skill set for creating layered algorithms and solving complex mathematical problems. To learn cryptography, professionals must have the some, if not all, of the skills listed below.

• Technical Skills – Professionals use programming languages like Java and Python for complex algorithms. Cryptographers must understand language organization and writing code for tasks.
• Analytical Skills – Cryptography professionals must understand mathematical principles like linear algebra, number theory, and combinatorics. They use these principles to design and decipher strong encryption systems.
• Effective Communication – Cryptographers need good communication skills to work effectively with their teams. Clear language is important for identifying and solving problems in security systems. Knowing another language can help cryptographers understand international threats.

The Essentials

The first step to becoming a cryptographer is learning about cryptography. Professionals often begin their careers by getting a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field. Job requirements vary, but many positions require a master’s degree in computer science or cybersecurity.

A cybersecurity management master’s program teaches students the basics of cryptography. The curriculum also focuses on applying cryptography techniques to real-world situations. Protecting confidential business information is a key focus. Additionally, courses cover security and cyber threats for IT managers, ensuring students are ready to handle present and future cybersecurity issues.

In Conclusion

Careers in cryptography offer a wide range of opportunities and benefits for individuals interested in the field. With the increasing importance of data security and privacy, there is a growing demand for professionals skilled in cryptography. The growth of the blockchain and web3 industry has meant that these jobs are increasingly common on crypto job boards. Furthermore, cryptography jobs often come with competitive salaries and benefits, making them financially rewarding. Overall, pursuing a career in cryptography can lead to a fulfilling and prosperous professional path.