Closing the AI Chasm with the New and Improved Certified Ethical Hacker

The cybersecurity industry is in the midst of a pressing and all too critical challenge: a massive skills shortage at all levels of the profession. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are currently as many as 700,000 open cybersecurity positions, with that number set to grow. As both cybercrime and cyber defense continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace, fueled by the rise of sophisticated technologies like AI, there is an acute need to train a new generation of cybersecurity professionals ready to answer the call.

At EC-Council, we’re committed to bridging this gap by equipping ethical hackers with the cutting-edge skills and knowledge they need to combat modern cyber threats.

That is why I am thrilled to announce today a major leap forward in our mission: the launch of Certified Ethical Hacker CEH v13 with AI powered Capabilities, the world’s first ethical hacking program that fully integrates artificial intelligence learning and skills. This groundbreaking certification program marks a new era in cybersecurity education, where AI takes center stage.

Why AI Matters in Cybersecurity

Since it splashed onto the world stage in 2023, the impact of AI has left the realm of speculation and is now having significant and tangible impact on the cybersecurity landscape. Cybercriminals are leveraging AI to automate attacks, develop sophisticated malware, and exploit vulnerabilities at an alarming rate, while many cybersecurity technologies are integrating AI capabilities to empower defenders and equip them with new means to defend the organizations they serve. In order to address these rapid advancements, cybersecurity professionals must have pathways to learning on how to leverage AI for enhanced defense strategies and defend against AI powered attacks.

C|EH v13: Forging the Next Generation of Ethical Hackers

Inspired by the findings of our 2024 CEH Threat Report, C|EH v13 will equip cybersecurity professionals with real world skills and knowledge. In building CEH, it was always a top priority that those who finish the program are immediately ready to enter the cybersecurity workforce and start long, meaningful careers in the industry.

With CEHv13ai I am proud to say that it continues in that tradition, leveraging our unique education framework based on the core tenets of Learn, Certify, Engage, and Compete, and taking cybersecurity learners beyond theory and into practice.

Those taking the certification will learn crucial skills in leveraging AI for enhanced hacking techniques, including reconnaissance, vulnerability scanning, and exploit development. They will also be able to gain in-depth knowledge of AI systems, gaining understanding of how to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in these technologies. Building on these skills, learners will develop expertise in mitigating the latest AI-powered threats as identified by the OWASP Top 10 AI Threats, such as prompt injection, insecure output handling, and training data poisoning.

As previously mentioned, hand-on experience is a central component of this certification. With CEHv13ai, learners will benefit from a world-class training program featuring 221 hands-on labs, utilizing over 4,000 commercial-grade hacking tools in a real-time simulated environment.

Finally, the certification also comes with the opportunity to compete in a year long Capture the Flag competition. Engaging with this event offers a continuous opportunity for eager learners to sharpen their skills and test their knowledge in a global hacking competition, with the chance to take home the win and add an impressive credential to their resume.

Closing the Skills Gap, Together

At EC-Council, we believe that empowering ethical hackers with the right skills is crucial to building a safer digital world, closing the massive cybersecurity skills gap, and providing individuals around the globe with a pathway into highly valuable and rewarding careers. CEH v13 is a testament to our commitment to staying ahead of the curve and providing the most relevant and advanced cybersecurity training available, and I am proud of all of those who have contributed towards making this new version the very best in the industry.

I hope that you will join us in this mission to bridge the cybersecurity skills gap and create a more secure future for all. Those interested in embarking on the journey to becoming an AI-powered ethical hacker can learn more here.