By Michael Armer, CISO, RingCentral
In today’s digitally connected world, where information and communication technologies
are integral to nearly every aspect of our lives, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be
overstated. As our reliance on the digital realm continues to grow, so does the potential for
cyber threats and vulnerabilities. From personal privacy and financial security to national
infrastructure and global commerce, the interconnectedness of our modern society has
given rise to a complex web of cyber risks that can have far-reaching and devastating
consequences.
Recognising the significance of safeguarding our digital assets and infrastructure, prioritising cybersecurity has become not just a matter of convenience, but a fundamental necessity for individuals, organisations, and governments alike.
In the context of the heightened demand for data privacy and cybersecurity in a digitally
connected world, Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) play a crucial role in promoting cybersecurity awareness at both national and global levels. While organisations are encouraged to follow cybersecurity best practices like using multi-factor authentication,
strong passwords, and keeping software updated, it’s essential for CISOs to take a
comprehensive approach to assess their organisation’s overall cybersecurity posture.
Here are three key actions that CISOs should consider:
Utilise Cybersecurity Maturity Frameworks
Cybersecurity maturity models are valuable tools that help organisations assess their
current cybersecurity practices and identify areas for improvement. These frameworks offer
benchmarks based on industry standards, allowing CISOs to measure their progress in
implementing security standards throughout their operations. Once a strategy is
established, CISOs can create initiatives that require cooperation across various
departments and ensure clear communication to enhance the organisation’s security
posture.
Prioritise Security and Customer Trust as Core Business Values
Building trust with customers is essential in the event of a security incident or breach.
Transparency and open communication demonstrate maturity and are appreciated by
customers. A robust security policy should extend beyond data protection and incident
response to encompass customers, investors, regulators, and employees. Security
awareness training and adherence to industry regulations should be fundamental to an
organisation’s values from the beginning, making security and trust competitive
differentiators.
Adopt a Shared Responsibility Model
Cybersecurity success relies on contributions from everyone within an organisation. It’s
important to involve various departments, such as legal, finance, marketing, and sales, in
evaluating risks associated with business decisions. This collaborative approach ensures that critical business risks are identified and accounted for in the enterprise risk assessment. By defining clear roles and responsibilities in corporate policies, organisations can promote awareness and accountability across all levels, ultimately maintaining comprehensive and up-to-date information security practices across the entire business landscape.
As Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and leaders in the field of security, it is our
duty to ensure our organisation is prepared to address increasing threats by fostering and
reinforcing a robust security mindset. Beyond safeguarding against internal and external
threats, we need to adeptly convey our security strategy to garner support and cooperation
across various departments and from key stakeholders. Cybersecurity Awareness Month
serves as a valuable opportunity to reevaluate how we can more effectively embed security
as an integral component of our individual company cultures.