The Top 10 Cyber Security Books To Read in 2025 To Boost Your Knowledge

In an era when 83% of organisations reported at least one cyber attack over the past year, staying ahead of cyber threats in 2025 has never been more critical. One of the best ways to boost your knowledge and skills is by diving into some of the top cyber security books available today.

What is Cyber Security?

The primary function of cyber security is to defend digital services, including safeguarding data and personal information from online threats. It reduces the impact of events such as hacking, malware, theft, or disruption can have on your system. Cyber security also ensures that all emerging technological advancements – such as AI and 5G networks – can be developed and used securely.

Source: NCSC

What Can I Do to Improve My Cyber Security?

With approximately 8.58 million cybercrimes being reported in the last 12 months, it is crucial to acquire a high level of security. A great way to build your skills is by learning from people who already have deep experience in the field. Attending a talk or workshop by a cyber security keynote speaker can give you clear, practical advice and help you understand the latest threats. Picking up a well-regarded book is another excellent option, as it allows you to explore topics in more detail and revisit key concepts whenever you need to develop your knowledge.

Our Top 10 Cyber Security Books To Read in 2025 To Boost Your Knowledge

Drawing from exclusive data gathered from 200 corporate event polls, Chris Tompkins offers his expert editorial opinion on what the Top 10 Cyber security Books in 2025 are. These books are bestsellers known for their developed insight.

1. The Cyber Effect by Mary Aiken
2. Spam Nation by Brian Krebs
3. Understand the Cyber Attacker Mindset by Sarah Armstrong-Smith
4. Scam Me If You Can by Frank Abagnale
5. Manipulated: Inside the Cyberwar to Hijack Elections and Distort the Truth by Theresa Payton
6. Confident Cyber Security by Jessica Barker
7. The Dark Net: Inside the Digital Underworld by Jamie Bartlett
8. Going Dark: The Secret Social Lives of Extremists by Julia Ebner
9. Deepfakes: The Coming Infocalypse by Nina Schick
10. Privacy Is Power by Carissa Véliz

The Cyber Effect by Mary Aiken

The Cyber Effect by Mary Aiken examines how the internet shapes human behaviour, from childhood development to criminal activity. Drawing on her work as a cyberpsychologist, Aiken explores issues such as online addiction, cyberbullying, internet-fueled crime, and the blurred line between virtual and real-life identities. The book highlights both the benefits and dangers of life online, warning of the psychological and societal consequences of unchecked digital growth.

Mary Aiken is a world-renowned expert in cyberpsychology, advisor to law enforcement agencies, and academic researcher. Her groundbreaking work has influenced global discussions on technology, security, and ethics in the digital age.

Spam Nation by Brian Krebs

Spam Nation by Brian Krebs is a gripping exposé on the underground economy of spam, fake pharmaceuticals, and global cybercrime. Drawing on years of investigation, Krebs uncovers how shadowy networks thrived through mass email scams and how rivalries within these groups ultimately led to their downfall.

Brian Krebs, a former Washington Post journalist, built his reputation by exposing major security breaches, including early reports on the Target and Home Depot hacks. Through his influential blog, KrebsOnSecurity, he has become a trusted authority in cyber security, praised for uncovering botnets, identity theft rings, and data breaches that shaped how companies confront online threats.

Understand the Cyber Attacker Mindset by Sarah Armstrong-Smith

Understand the Cyber Attacker Mindset by Sarah Armstrong-Smith explores how organisations can think like attackers to better defend against evolving cyber threats. The book delves into psychology, strategy, and human behavior behind cybercrime, helping readers anticipate and mitigate risks before they occur.

Sarah Armstrong-Smith is one of the UK’s leading cybersecurity experts, currently serving as Chief Security Advisor at Microsoft. With over two decades of experience in crisis management, resilience, and digital security, she has advised global enterprises and governments. Her career blends technical expertise with leadership insight, empowering businesses to build stronger, more adaptive security cultures.

Scam Me If You Can by Frank Abagnale

Scam Me If You Can by Frank Abagnale is a practical guide to recognising and avoiding modern scams, from identity theft to online fraud. Drawing on decades of experience, Abagnale explains the tactics criminals use to exploit people and offers clear strategies to protect against them.

Frank Abagnale is best known for his life story as a master con artist in his youth, which inspired the film Catch Me If You Can. After serving prison time, he became a respected fraud expert, working with the FBI and corporations worldwide to combat financial crimes and strengthen security systems.

Manipulated: Inside the Cyberwar to Hijack Elections and Distort the Truth by Theresa Payton

Manipulated: Inside the Cyberwar to Hijack Elections and Distort the Truth by Theresa Payton is a sharp investigation into how digital tools are weaponised to influence public opinion and undermine democracy. The book examines tactics like deepfakes, disinformation campaigns, and data harvesting, showing how they can distort truth and sway elections.

Theresa Payton, former White House Chief Information Officer under President George W. Bush, is a leading cyber security authority. She is the founder of Fortalice Solutions, a security consulting firm, and has been recognised as one of the most influential women in technology for her work combating cybercrime and online manipulation.

Confident Cyber Security by Jessica Barker

Confident Cyber Security by Jessica Barker is a clear and practical introduction to the complex world of cyber security, written to help both beginners and professionals strengthen their understanding. The book explains key concepts such as social engineering, phishing, and risk management while also covering the human side of security—why people fall for scams and how to build a security-aware culture.

Jessica Barker is a leading cyber security expert, co-founder of Cygenta, and an international keynote speaker. Recognised for her ability to make technical topics accessible, she has been named one of the most influential women in cyber security worldwide.

The Dark Net: Inside the Digital Underworld by Jamie Bartlett

The Dark Net: Inside the Digital Underworld by Jamie Bartlett explores the hidden corners of the internet where anonymity fuels both innovation and crime. The book investigates topics such as drug markets, extremist communities, hacking networks, and online pornography, offering a balanced look at the dangers and freedoms of the digital underground.

Jamie Bartlett is a British journalist, author, and researcher specialising in technology and radical politics. He has written extensively on how the internet shapes modern society, with achievements including presenting BBC documentaries and authoring acclaimed books that examine social media, digital culture, and the rise of online movements.

Going Dark: The Secret Social Lives of Extremists by Julia Ebner

Going Dark: The Secret Social Lives of Extremists by Julia Ebner is an inside look at how extremist groups operate and recruit in online spaces. The book draws on her undercover work, where she infiltrated digital communities tied to far-right, jihadist, and other radical ideologies, exposing their strategies of manipulation and propaganda.

Julia Ebner is a researcher at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue in London, specialising in extremism, radicalisation, and online subcultures. She has advised governments, testified before committees, and written acclaimed books like The Rage. Her work highlights the intersection of technology, psychology, and politics in the fight against extremism.

Deepfakes: The Coming Infocalypse by Nina Schick

Deepfakes: The Coming Infocalypse by Nina Schick is a timely exploration of how synthetic media and artificial intelligence are reshaping truth, trust, and politics. The book explains the rise of deepfake technology, its potential for misuse in disinformation, and the risks it poses to democracy, security, and society at large.

Nina Schick is a political advisor, author, and commentator specialising in technology’s impact on global affairs. She has advised leaders, including former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, and has become a leading voice on AI and disinformation, recognised internationally for her insights into the challenges of the digital age.

Privacy Is Power by Carissa Véliz

Privacy Is Power by Carissa Véliz is a compelling call to reclaim control over personal data in the digital age. The book explains how corporations and governments exploit data collection, why privacy is essential for freedom and democracy, and what individuals can do to protect themselves.

Carissa Véliz is an associate professor at the University of Oxford, specialising in ethics, technology, and political philosophy. Her research and writing focus on the moral implications of big data and artificial intelligence. She is widely recognised as a leading voice on digital rights, urging society to rethink how personal information is handled.

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This exclusive article on the top cyber security books to read in 2025 to boost your knowledge was authored by Chris Tompkins, drawing on verified feedback from 200 corporate event polls.