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BSc Cyber Security student at Birmingham City University (74% average) and Cyber Security & Technology Consultant at Keystone Digital Strategy. I build a strong foundation in networking, security operations and digital forensics, one packet capture, one lab, one CTF at a time.
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Muhammad Hamza Rafeh
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Cyber Security & Technology Consultant | BSc Cyber Security Student
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Securing the digital future_
I'm a BSc Cyber Security student at Birmingham City University, currently holding a 74% average, on track for First Class Honours. My path into security started with an engineering foundation, a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (D*D*D), that shaped how I approach systems: methodically, and with an eye for how things break.
Alongside my degree, I completed a Diploma in Artificial Intelligence at Sungkyunkwan University (South Korea), exploring how AI intersects with modern defensive security.
I now work as a Cyber Security & Technology Consultant at Keystone Digital Strategy, carrying out security reviews of client websites, web applications and cloud environments. My experience also spans handling confidential patient data as a healthcare receptionist and building solutions under pressure at hackathons like UniHack. I'm especially drawn to SOC operations, ethical hacking, and networking, and I'm currently working toward CompTIA Security+.
I bring strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a calm head under pressure, traits I'm looking to put to work in a Cyber Security, SOC Analyst, Network Security or IT Support role.
Average grade, BSc Cyber Security
CompTIA Certification: In Progress
Hands-on security & networking labs
Community & charity volunteering
Conduct security reviews of client websites, web applications and cloud environments, identifying vulnerabilities and recommending remediation. Support secure-by-design practices across client projects, including access management, authentication, configuration hardening and data protection, and translate technical findings into clear recommendations for non-technical stakeholders.
Coordinated the technical setup and delivery of workshops, talks and hackathons, including tooling, equipment and troubleshooting support, to enhance members' hands-on technical skills. Supported speakers and participants with technical resources, creating an inclusive environment for students to explore new technologies.
Managed confidential patient data, appointment scheduling and front-desk operations in a fast-paced healthcare environment. Developed strong discretion, communication and multi-tasking skills while handling sensitive information under strict confidentiality standards, a mindset that carries directly into data protection and security practice.
Participated in multiple UniHack hackathons, collaborating in teams to design and build technical solutions under time constraints. Applied problem-solving and technical skills from my Cyber Security studies to each challenge, sharpening my ability to perform under pressure as part of a technical team.
Self-directed and academic lab projects exploring core security disciplines.
Captured and analyzed live network traffic to identify anomalies, suspicious packets and potential intrusion indicators at the packet level.
Strengthened packet-level analysis and pattern recognition for network-based attacks.
Built a virtual lab environment to scan systems for known vulnerabilities and misconfigurations using industry-standard scanning tools.
Learned to identify, prioritize and report vulnerabilities using a structured assessment methodology.
Developed a custom Python-based network port scanner to detect open ports and running services on target systems.
Deepened network programming knowledge and reinforced Python for security automation.
Simulated a Security Operations Center environment by configuring a SIEM to collect, correlate and alert on log data from multiple sources.
Gained hands-on exposure to SOC workflows, log correlation and incident triage.
Conducted ethical password-cracking exercises in a controlled lab to understand hashing weaknesses and the importance of strong password policy.
Learned hash algorithms, brute-force/dictionary attacks, and password policy design.
Industry-recognized certification covering core security concepts, risk management, network security and incident response.
Key modules: Cyber Security Fundamentals, Network Fundamentals, Cyber Security Operations, Software Security, System Security Attacks & Defences, Applied Cryptography, Applied Cyber Forensics and Applied AI for Cyber Security.
Completed a short-term diploma in Artificial Intelligence, building applied AI knowledge alongside core Cyber Security studies.
Built a strong analytical and technical foundation, including CAD and systems-based problem solving.
Active member engaging with peers on technical projects, events and community learning around computing and security.
5+ years volunteering within the local community, building empathy, reliability and a strong sense of civic responsibility.
I'm actively looking for opportunities in Cyber Security, SOC Analysis, Network Security, IT Support or Graduate Tech roles. Whether you have an opening, a question, or just want to connect, my inbox is open.
hamzarafeh3@gmail.com 07999 924813 linkedin.com/in/muhammad-hamza-rafeh-7b377132b github.com/hamzarafeh3-afk