Technical interviews have changed over the past few years. One quiet shift that deserves attention is how often basic security questions come up now, even for non-security roles. Companies seem to expect every developer to understand fundamental protection concepts. This makes sense when you consider how many breaches start with simple oversights.
InterviewCoder recently shared some practical advice that aligns with what I’ve seen in the field. They emphasize that security isn’t just for specialists anymore. Whether you’re building mobile apps in Lagos or cloud services in Singapore, understanding core principles matters. Small teams in emerging tech hubs often handle security themselves without dedicated staff.
Some foundational concepts keep appearing in interviews. Two-factor authentication (2FA) comes up frequently. It’s that extra step where you confirm your identity with both a password and a temporary code. Another is SQL injection, where attackers manipulate database queries through input fields. These aren’t theoretical risks. Real breaches happen this way every day.
What can you do today? Start with your personal accounts. Enable 2FA everywhere possible, especially for email and financial services. Use authenticator apps instead of SMS when you can. For coding practice, validate all user inputs as if they contain malicious code. InterviewCoder has specific exercises that simulate real-world vulnerabilities.
Mental fatigue affects security decisions too. When preparing for interviews, schedule regular breaks. The platform suggests pairing technical study with mindfulness techniques. Many developers in Nairobi and Jakarta use short meditation sessions to maintain focus during intensive prep periods.
Free resources exist if you want structured learning. The EC-Council offers basic cybersecurity modules through their CCT program. Cybersecurity Ventures publishes annual threat reports that help understand current risks. Both are mentioned on InterviewCoder as reliable starting points.
Here’s what works for practical interview prep. First, learn to explain security concepts in simple terms. If asked about cross-site scripting (XSS), describe how attackers inject malicious scripts into websites. Second, review your past projects for potential weaknesses. Could someone manipulate that API endpoint? Third, understand common compliance standards like GDPR, even at a basic level.
Security awareness has become part of professional literacy. It’s not about becoming an expert overnight. It’s about recognizing risks in your daily work. Developers in smaller markets often lead here, building security into processes from day one out of necessity.
Interview preparation now includes this dimension. When practicing algorithms on platforms like InterviewCoder, glance at their security sections too. The questions reflect what companies actually ask junior and mid-level developers. You’ll find scenarios about session hijacking and password storage that test practical understanding.
This shift feels healthy for our industry. Security becomes shared responsibility rather than isolated concern. That mindset serves everyone better in the long run.
