New data from technology job site Technojobs has revealed a significant rise in the number of permanent cyber security jobs over the last year, demonstrating an increased demand for qualified employees in this sector.

As of October 2014, job vacancies in cyber security have risen significantly by over 100% since the same point last year, positioning it as one of the UK’s most sought-after IT skills – Technojobs currently have nearly 2,000 Security related jobs live on its website.

The value of cyber security skills is reflected in the average salary for jobs – there has been a 10% rise year on year for cyber security staff to an average UK salary of £57,000. This rises in London to an average salary of £65,000 and is now one of the highest paying, fastest growing areas within the IT sector in the UK.

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Anthony Sherick, MD of Technojobs, believes that the increased demand for cyber security professionals is a prime example of the current skill shortage across the IT and tech industry.

‘From the data it is clear that the cyber security sector is suffering from a problem of supply and demand,’ he said. ‘This demand will continue to grow especially as hacking scandals and cyberattacks continue to hit the news – from the iCloud celebrity photo hacking and the cyber-attack on eBay passwords, to the recent hacking of the White House computer systems.

‘In addition, Government demand for security specialists is massive and at its highest levels as it continues to monitor national UK and international threats.  It is now more important than ever to invest in the right training and skills – and this requires schools, universities and businesses to develop a pipeline of talent capable of filling these vacant cyber security roles.’

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‘The massive rise in the UK’s tech industry has been illustrated by the number of jobs that are now empty. If there continues to be such a distinct lack of skills, businesses will find it increasingly difficult to recruit employees from the UK with appropriate skills, stunting the growth of the economy.  More importantly with Cyber Security leaving our citizens and national security massively exposed.’