Too Broke for Cybersecurity? My Struggle & Advice

Cybersecurity is a Lifestyle, Not a Quick Money Scheme

Cybersecurity isn’t just a career path; it’s a mindset, a way of thinking, a lifestyle. If you’re here just because you saw someone on LinkedIn flexing their six-figure salary, you’re in the wrong place. This field demands curiosity, problem-solving, and a genuine love for breaking and fixing things.

cybersecurity isn't a quick money making scheme/profession.

For me, hacking was fun before I even knew it was a career, back when you had to hack "HackTheBox" just to create an account. Before I stumbled upon the 12-hour free TCM course on YouTube, I was already messing around as a script kiddie.

The money will come, but if cash is your only motivation, burnout is waiting for you down the road. If cybersecurity isn’t fun for you, you won’t last—whether you’re broke or rich.

Cybersecurity is Expensive, Let’s Be Real

Certifications cost thousands of dollars, and entry-level jobs expect you to have them. But what if you’re broke? What if you’re unemployed?

I’ve been there. I know the struggle.

I paid for PJPT with my own money, and PNPT? That one was a gift. Then I looked at OSCP—$1500! That’s almost 3 million Naira. And yet, OSCP is listed in almost every "beginner" job requirement.

Make it make sense.

How is an unemployed cybersecurity enthusiast supposed to afford that?

Unemployment is real. Hustling for basic needs is already hard enough—how do you invest in cybersecurity on top of that?

I started questioning: Is cybersecurity only for the rich? Because right now, it’s looking like a rich man’s sport.

How I Kept Going Despite Being Broke

I won’t lie—it was rough. After PJPT and PNPT, I was stuck. OSCP was out of reach.

But I didn’t stop.

What Kept Me Going?

I Focused on Hands-On Skills

No money for certs? Fine. But I made sure I could actually do the job. Certifications look good on a résumé, but employers value skills even more.

I built labs, practiced on TryHackMe and Hack The Box, and learned how to write professional reports.

I Joined Communities

Twitter, LinkedIn, Discord—networking opens doors. I connected with professionals, found free learning resources, and even discovered sponsorship opportunities. The cybersecurity community is full of people willing to help, but you have to put yourself out there.

I Documented My Journey

No cert? Fine. But I could prove my knowledge through blogs, LinkedIn posts, and GitHub projects. Sharing my progress not only helped me learn but also got me noticed by professionals and recruiters.

I Gave Back

When I started, I relied on free resources, so I made it a point to give back. I shared what I learned, mentored beginners, and helped others the same way I was helped. Good karma always comes back around—whether through unexpected opportunities, sponsorships, or referrals.

You don’t need money to start, but you need consistency. Keep learning, keep building, and keep sharing. The cybersecurity field rewards those who stay committed.