Cyber-attacks are a continuously growing problem for businesses of all kinds. Forbes Magazine estimates that businesses worldwide will lose roughly $2 trillion in profits due to compromised computer systems and stolen data. How can business owners protect their customers’ sensitive online transactions and information?

What is a Certified Incident Handler?

When cyber-criminals attack, you have a limited amount of time to respond effectively. The speed and accuracy of your team’s response often determine how severely the attacks will affect your operations.

Most IT professionals have some training in incident response. They know how to use anti-malware programs and protocols to limit unauthorized access. They also know how to neutralize many threats, recover lost or corrupted files, and secure the system against similar repeated offenses. However, hackers are getting smarter and faster every day. As cybersecurity professionals discover each new trick, criminals are busy producing more.

Short training sessions are available that teach working IT professionals how to handle the newest threats and tactics used by dangerous hackers. A Certified Incident Handler training focuses on the skills needed to detect, deactivate, and prevent the spread of malicious computer programming. This includes:

• Recognizing the type of incident to determine the best response.
• Risk assessment methods.
• Information on the latest computer security threats.
• Laws and policies that relate to incident handling.

After course completion, students are able to accurately assess and respond to Internet-based attacks on your servers or connected devices. Students also learn how to use computer forensics techniques to detect threats and secure networks from future breeches. Certified Incident Handlers are an essential part of any IT team that is serious about its cybersecurity efforts.

All About the Certified Incident Handler Exam

Successful completion of a comprehensive examination is necessary to earn full certification as an Incident Handler. The test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions that measure the student’s grasp of important concepts related to computer network security. Students are limited to 4 hours of testing time. A minimum score of 70% is needed to earn full certification.

Every testing center is different, but generally, these rules apply to those completing certification tests.

• No personal electronics are allowed. Phones, laptops, PDAs, and other devices should be left in your vehicle. Secured lockers may be available to temporarily store your items. Written notes may not be used during testing.
• Do not bring coats, backpacks, purses, or other large items into the testing room. These may also be secured in temporary storage lockers.
• Students must confirm their identity before testing. Two forms of valid ID ensures the certification is awarded to the right person.
• Center administrators are present to log testers into their assigned workstation. Most tests are computerized for simplicity and more accurate scoring. Administrators will stay in the room to assist with questions and technical issues.

How to Prepare Yourself for Success

After completing the instructor-led training, taking the test should not be difficult. However, if you’re nervous about taking tests, these tips will help you do your best, no matter how nervous you get.

• Set up your testing date as soon as you are eligible. Waiting too long means you risk forgetting some of the information you learned in class.
• Get a good night’s sleep before your test day. You can't concentrate on the task at hand if you're falling asleep. Be sure to get enough sleep to feel rested and alert on the big day.
• Spend some time reviewing your notes and reading materials before your test day. Use 3 x 5 cards to make flashcards of terms that you haven’t fully grasped. Quiz yourself throughout the day.
• Have a snack before entering the testing center. A growling stomach makes it difficult to concentrate. Don’t eat too much, though. You don’t want to fall victim to indigestion either.

Retesting may be available for students who do not successfully complete their first attempt. Ask your instructor or testing center administrator about current retesting policy for accurate information.

Would Your Business Benefit from a Certified Employee?

Is your IT department ready to handle the latest security threats? Make sure they are with a 5-day, instructor-led training course from Infotec. The Certified Incident Handler course will show your employees the most current methods of fighting cybercrimes. Once complete, students are able to schedule their certification exam in the Infotec testing center. Contact our representatives to qualify for upcoming sessions.

For more information about Infotec or any of our programs click here: http://www.infotectraining.com/ or https://ops.infotecpro.com/course_schedule/course_schedule.cfm.