Why I'm Fascinated by Cybersecurity: Interview with Jaspreet Kaur

The HackerNoon editorial team has launched this interview series with women in tech to celebrate their achievements and share their struggles. We need more women in technology, and by sharing stories, we can encourage many girls to follow their dreams.

Share your story today!

Tell us about yourself!

Hi, Jaspreet Kaur here. I work in the field of cyber security as a researcher, faculty, blogger, and consultant. My major areas of interest include blockchain security, network security, and application security, but I'm also interested in working on other aspects of cyber security.

I've various duties as a guest lecturer at the Sardar Patel University of Police, Security, and Criminal Justice in Jodhpur (IN), as a PhD scholar at the Indian Institute of Technology in Jodhpur (IN), and as a blogger for the William and Mary Blockchain Lab, Hackernoon, Medium, and Cybrary. Despite this, I have worked at a number of other universities throughout my career, including HBTU Kanpur (IN), IGDTUW Delhi (IN), PEC Kanpur (IN), and PSAT Kanpur (IN).

I am also a member of various research communities including N2women, ACM-W and many more, and wrote various articles in conferences and journals.  I'm also the recipient of a number of academic accolades and scholarships. I am a firm believer in the exchange of ideas. Feel free to contact me if you want to share your opinions or need assistance with cyber security. I am delighted to assist.

My social network handles are:

https://twitter.com/Jaspreet173

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaspreet-kaur-07726a123/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100003792556320

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jaspreet-Kaur-107

Why did you choose this field in the first place?

This is a field that has piqued my interest since elementary school. I completed my higher studies in this field for that objective. I want to learn more about this field and share what I've learned with others.

What tech are you most excited/passionate about right now and why?

Every aspect of cyber security fascinates me, but right now I'm concentrating on blockchain security (Advanced and Emerging Technology).

What tech are you most worried about right now and why?

There is no exact answer to this question. Because every technology has advantages and disadvantages, some technology may be appropriate right now but may or may not be appropriate in 10 years, while another earlier decade technology may or may not be appropriate right now due to its flaws.

What are your hobbies and interests outside of tech?

I enjoy traveling and networking with other individuals for the purpose of exchanging knowledge.

Let's talk about breaking the glass ceiling. What were the biggest challenges you faced as a woman in tech, and how did you deal with them?

The greatest challenge, in my opinion, is not to explore. Right now, there is a range of options available. Simply remove the obstacles. Continue to collaborate or network with others. There are persons that can assist you in pursuing your dreams.

Any questionable misogynistic story/situation you faced/handled, and want to share with the HackerNoon Fam?

There are a variety of scenarios. Every situation, however, has a remedy. All you have to do now is meet with folks who share your interests and can make relevant recommendations.

What was the biggest setback/failure that you faced, and how did you manage it?

In my opinion, there is no such thing as failure; instead, there is always the opportunity to grow.

Just learn and move ahead.

What's your biggest achievement that you're really proud of?

There are plenty, but one of the most recent is being named one of the Top Indian Women Influencers in Security 2022.

In your opinion, why do we see this huge gender gap in the tech industry, and how can we reduce it?

As everyone is aware, there is a gap. However, it can be reduced by doing small things like not hesitating, breaking down barriers, forming networks and sharing your expertise, and exploring new things. There are many people who share your values and can help you. Be self-assured and continue to study.

Who is your tech idol? Why?**

My idol is Vandana Verma Ma'am. She serves on the OWASP Global Board of Directors as Vice-Chair. Her technical skills and professionalism inspire me to pursue a career in this field.

Do you have any advice for aspiring girls who want to join the field?

As I previously stated, start with modest steps such as not hesitating, breaking down your boundaries, continuing to study, and forming networks. These are all efforts to keep you ahead in your field.