The Core Elements of a Cybersecurity Posture
Most organizations rely heavily on technology, making them susceptible to cyber threats and necessitating a resilient cybersecurity plan. But what defines and comprises an effective cybersecurity strategy? Below are seven core elements that can lay the groundwork for a healthy cybersecurity posture.
No. 1: Close alignment between cybersecurity priorities and business outcomes
Businesses want to increase revenue and return value to shareholders, customers and employees. It is important to find an alignment between cybersecurity strategy and business goals without causing conflict or working at cross-purposes with business priorities. A good security strategy will align with corporate direction and is quantifiable in terms of the way it delivers that mission. Everyone in the organization should be aware of not just the role cyber plays in the overall business strategy but at the individual level that helps to sustain a culture of security.
No. 2: Focus on crown jewels
The cybersecurity domain is intricate and so noisy with vendor promises that security teams can easily become distracted and confused. The starting point must always be about what needs to be achieved foremost to keep the business solvent. These are the organization’s crown jewels — essential, non-negotiable, and most worthy of safeguarding at any cost. When allocating budgets, security leaders must have complete clarity on what they are protecting, because no organization is in the business of failure.
No. 3: Commitment from top down
Cybersecurity is often delegated to the IT staff however it is now evident that security risk extends beyond technology and is in truth, a business risk. Business leaders and the C-suite should be compelled to provide ongoing guidance and oversight on cybersecurity matters. That is because security is a collective responsibility: all stakeholders have an obligation to defend the organization from data leaks and cyberattacks. Leadership must bring employees together under a common cause, set the tone, foster discussion, and shape the culture.
