Reflection Paper on the Webinar Title: The Hacker's Journey: A Guide to Getting into Cybersecurity

 

        I attended a webinar titled “The Hacker's Journey: A Guide to Getting into Cybersecurity.” The main focus of this webinar was to introduce beginners to cybersecurity by exploring how hackers operate and the skills needed to start a career in the field. The webinar was facilitated by Qubit Studio from Gordon College and took place on September 20, 2025. Mr. Mark Angelo Santonil, a systems security administrator, was the guest speaker.

        I found the webinar somewhat difficult to understand. While Mr. Mark Angelo Santonil did explain some concepts, I still struggled to follow his discussions. I felt that I needed a more foundational introduction or a beginner's lesson on the topic. My main takeaway was that he provided valuable information on cybersecurity.

        The focus of the webinar was to raise awareness about how to protect our devices from intruders attempting to breach them. He discussed the tools hackers use, their perspectives, and how understanding these skills can be beneficial. He also explained the techniques hackers employ to launch digital attacks on devices.

        At one point, he demonstrated how to exploit a vulnerability using an SQL injection. By inputting specific commands through a login form, he was able to gain unauthorized access; however, this method only works on websites with poor security. A common tactic hackers use is to input a special code that tricks the website into thinking they are a legitimate user. Unfortunately, Mr. Santonil did not explain what these codes are, which left me confused.

He emphasized the importance of understanding these skills, especially in today's digital world. Knowing a hacker's perspective can help us recognize their strategies and ultimately prevent potential attacks. There is high demand for knowledge and technical skills in cybersecurity, as many organizations prioritize maintaining a safe and secure workplace.

        Understanding how hackers gain access to systems is essential. By examining their perspectives, I can better anticipate their strategies. Acquiring skills in this area is important not only for enhancing security but also for constructive purposes such as tracking hacker activities, assisting in investigations, conducting counterintelligence, and understanding their methods of attack and data collection from targets. Cybersecurity plays a crucial role in preventing data breaches and improving our understanding of the digital landscape. I’m eager to participate in another session like this one, as it’s incredibly important for everyone to be informed about it.