As October comes to a close, I reflect on the past couple of months, which have been quite eventful. Looking back, I'm filled with gratitude for the accomplishments I've achieved.

Around mid-August, I embarked on a journey to prepare for the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity certification exam. While I wasn't a stranger to the world of cybersecurity, I saw this as a valuable opportunity to refresh my knowledge on the fundamental aspects of cybersecurity and obtain a certification from a widely recognized professional body. I'm thrilled to report that I successfully passed the exam on September 4, 2023.

For those who know me, it's no secret that I'm a continuous learner, always hungry for more knowledge. This pursuit led me to Forage, where I had the chance to engage in various real-life cybersecurity job simulations. My first experience involved the ANZ Cybersecurity Management simulation, which delved into Social Engineering Investigation and Digital Investigation. This hands-on task provided me with a real-world perspective on how organizations defend against cyber threats by practicing the identification of phishing emails and the analysis of packet capture files within a practical context. This program reaffirmed my passion for addressing complex security threats, and I'm eagerly looking forward to applying these skills within a cybersecurity team.

Subsequently, I enrolled in an introductory course on Anti-Money Laundering Regulations through Alison. This course enlightened me on the three stages of money laundering: Placement, Layering, and Integration. I also delved into the five EU directives on money laundering, the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, the responsibilities of a money laundering reporting officer, and Customer Due Diligence. This course broadened my horizons, equipping me with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate and handle tasks associated with money laundering and Know Your Customer (KYC) / Customer Due Diligence (CDD).