The actions of hackers are increasingly presenting new challenges in the field of cybersecurity. Protecting applications from unauthorized intrusion – in which areas is this task most relevant? To what extent does the need to pay attention to protection and security issues affect the development processes and the very work of certain programs? Today, we are discussing the topic with expert Mikhail Karpenko.
Mykhailo Karpenko is a highly qualified expert who specializes in creating high-load SaaS web platforms using C# and Cloud. He has been interested in electronics and technology since childhood and has easily mastered computer programming.
In Ukraine, Mykhailo developed game scenarios for the online games. While studying at the Priazovsky State Technical University, he interned and worked part-time for Artisans Online (US), where he studied web programming in depth and developed a system for processing orders in the Amazon online store based on Amazon Cloud solutions and was the lead developer in the team. Later, Mykhailo worked for 888 Holdings as a web developer. 888 Holdings is one of the world’s leading companies in the field of betting and gambling. Mykhailo developed a Bingo project (later successfully sold to another company).
In 2021, he started his work for CDW Corp. – a leading provider of IT solutions and services for business (B2B), government, education, and healthcare. In 2022, due to the war in Ukraine, he relocated to Miami. Besides software development, Mykhailo is fond of traveling and has visited 40+ countries.
Now, one of the pressing issues – both when developing new and when finalizing existing and working software – is the issue of security. How much does the need to solve application security problems affect the implementation of the main tasks of programmers and developers? Why can’t a man protect himself from hacking “once and for all”?
Absolutely, security has become a critical concern in our time, especially with the rise of AI-driven fraud. Even skilled programmers can fall victim to sophisticated scams. The companies I collaborate with often mandate extensive security training sessions for all employees. As one of my colleagues said, “Anything that can be run can also be hacked – it’s just a matter of finding the loophole.” This means that protection can never be static. Security measures must constantly evolve to stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated hacking methods. It’s a continuous race to minimize vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Are there any significant differences in software development in the field of betting and gambling from other spheres? Do you have to pay special attention to security issues there – or no more than, say, in applications for the banking sector?
Many programmers tend to steer clear of the gambling industry, likely due to strict regulations and bans in place. In fact, many countries outright prohibit even legal online gambling. This creates a tough environment where some gambling companies struggle to stay competitive and often go bankrupt. That said, security is a top priority in this field, especially when it comes to fraud prevention. In one company I worked for, there was an entire department dedicated to identifying gambling-related fraud. Additionally, gambling companies maintain strict oversight of their developers to ensure no one tampers with the game logic or attempts to siphon off the company’s multi-million-dollar revenues. It’s a unique and highly regulated space, requiring a different level of diligence compared to other industries.
Do AI technologies in software development significantly reduce cybersecurity risks?
AI does play a crucial role in detecting fraudulent activities more effectively. However, did you know that criminals sometimes use AI even more efficiently than experts combating them? This has led to the emergence of what some developers are calling “Supreme AI” – programs specifically designed to fight other artificial intelligences. I think the near future is going to be fascinating, with AI battling AI in a kind of digital arms race. It’s both exciting and a little daunting!
AI technologies are increasingly being used in software development. In your opinion, is there a chance that sooner or later, the need for live developers will decrease to 0 and AI will do everything?
It would be amazing if there were software that could magically transform everything I imagine into a working program. But the real question is, can AI truly understand the nuances of what my imagination wants? Developers aren’t just “coding machines.” They’re people who understand what other people need and can bring those ideas to life. I’m confident that talented programmers will always be in demand. After all, someone will still need to set up AI on a computer in the first place!
What skills should a modern IT specialist have in order to be the most productive, regardless of where exactly he works, studies, or teaches?
I could talk about soft skills, hard skills, and the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement. But there’s one fundamental thing that’s even more important: understanding why you do what you do. Ask yourself, “Why am I taking these actions at work?” and “How does my work contribute to the success of the organization?” If you have a clear understanding that your work matters and brings value to others, you’ll stay motivated and productive every day. True talent lies in finding daily tasks that you enjoy and that also make a meaningful difference to other people. That’s the key to lasting success and fulfillment in any field.
