When it comes to cybersecurity, it can seem like some areas get all the focus. And while it’s important to know your options for certifications in areas like cloud security, there’s more to the overall cyber field. Because of the rapid popularity of mobile devices in everyday use, ranging from social media to business applications, the demand for security professionals in this specialized field has never been higher. Just like other cyber fields, certifications can go a long way in increasing longevity and success on the job.
mobile device security certifications
I have listed below some of the more common certifications offered focusing on mobile device security. These certifications are not recommendations by me, nor am I paid by any of the companies that offer them, unlike many of the results that show up when you search for certifications. I have weeded through many a fake review and talked to industry professionals to cut out the noise and focus on as much true and accurate information as possible. Also, many other certifications offer a small block on such things as pen testing a mobile device, but they are too numerous to mention so I will focus on specialized options.
FedVTE
This website sponsored by the government provides free online cybersecurity training to federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial government employees, federal contractors, and US Military Veterans. While not true industry certifications, they offer courses in both securing mobile devices and mobile device forensics applicable to almost any level of learner. It is a good way to cut your teeth on the subject before you take a deep dive into the certification world. It is not a substitute for industry or academic education, but is a great add on.
GIAC Mobile Device Security Analyst
This certificate covers both Android and IOS management and seems to cover a wide array of both offensive and defensive tactics. It is mostly well respected amongst the “real” reviewers and has a compatible SANS prep course to go with it. The GMOB test is $2,000, and the pass rate is about 70%, so make sure you are ready with the help of SANS or self-study, unless you have money to blow through for fun. While not specifically saying so, some background in pen testing and or ethical hacking is implied in the course description.
IACIS Certified Mobile Device Examiner
IACIS is The International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists. If you take the prep course online ($995), the membership fee of $150 for that year is included. This non-profit organization is unique in that is has some course offerings such as investigating the Dark Web that are not offered in most other certification programs. The exam is two parts (really a gated process) and includes a practical exercise that seems to be quite challenging. While there is no prerequisite, it is highly suggested you take their other forensic examiner programs or have an extensive background in computer forensics. There are also extensive recertification requirements. By looking at who is on their Board of Directors and reading more about them, I have the impression this organization is well respected and high professional (although again, this is simply my opinion).
Mobile Forensics
EC-Council has a Mobile Forensics Deep Dive Workshop, that is fairly short in duration and inexpensive ($495). It does offer a certificate of completion, which could be worth some value when coupled with other Forensics certifications.
The Key to Success
The key is finding your starting point if you are interested in the world of mobile device security. If you have personally found other options helpful, reputable, and worthwhile, I would love to hear about them.
