PhD & Cybersecurity Specialist | CISO Level Coaching in Cybersecurity, Privacy, GRC & AI Security :: Turning Complex Security Topics into Clear, Hands-On Skills

Find out more about Rharif

• 1. Can you tell us about your first experience using a computer?

  My first experience with a computer was driven by curiosity. I remember being fascinated not only by using software, but by understanding how things worked behind the screen. Very quickly, I moved from simply using applications to exploring operating systems, configurations, and later programming and security concepts. That curiosity is what naturally led me to advanced studies in IT, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

• 2. What is the technological evolution that has marked you most and what will be, in your eyes, a turning point in this field?

  The evolution that marked me the most is the combination of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Today, artificial intelligence is becoming a real turning point. It is changing how we analyze data, detect attacks, automate tasks, and make decisions. In my opinion, the next major turning point will be AI-driven cybersecurity and intelligent systems that can anticipate threats before they happen.

• 3. Explain your expertise, your interest in it and, more broadly, its importance in the computer world.

  My expertise is in IT, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. I hold a State Engineering degree in Cybersecurity and I am currently doing a PhD in AI for Cybersecurity, and I also work as a GRC specialist. I am particularly interested in how systems can be secured, optimized, and made more intelligent. Cybersecurity is essential today because everything depends on IT, from banks and hospitals to companies and personal life. Without security and good architecture, modern digital systems simply cannot be trusted.

• 4. Do so-called 'visionaries', such as Bill Gates, Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg inspire you or do you have other role models?

  Of course, these figures are inspiring because they changed the world. But I am even more inspired by researchers, engineers, and security experts who work behind the scenes to build reliable, safe, and intelligent systems. My real inspiration comes from people who solve complex problems and create long-term impact through knowledge, rigor, and innovation.

• 5. Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  I remember the first time I discovered a serious security vulnerability in a system during my studies. It was a shock to realize how a small misconfiguration could put an entire system at risk. That moment made me understand that cybersecurity is not optional, it is fundamental. It also confirmed my decision to specialize in this field.

• 6. What would you say to an uncomfortable person in front of a screen who says that "IT is too complicated"?

  I would say that IT is not complicated, it is just badly explained. Everything can be learned step by step with the right method and the right guidance. My role is precisely to make complex things simple, logical, and accessible to everyone.

• 7. What are your other passions, related or non-related to computers?

  Besides IT, I am passionate about teaching, research, problem-solving, and continuous learning. I also enjoy reading, strategic thinking, and working on long-term projects that require both creativity and discipline.

• 8. What makes you a Superprof in IT?

  What makes me a Superprof is that I combine high level academic and professional expertise with strong pedagogy. I don’t just teach what to do, I explain why and how. I adapt to each student’s level, whether beginner or advanced, and my goal is always the same, to build confidence, solid understanding, and real skills.