Working amid the ever-changing currents of technology and
cyber security, businesses often find themselves entangled in a web of
misinformation and outdated ideas. But failing to distinguish between myth and
fact can put your business's security at serious risk.
Based
on expert research in the field, including CompTIA's 2024 global State Of
Cybersecurity report, we will debunk three common misconceptions that threaten
to derail your success in 2024.
Myth 1: My Cybersecurity Is Good Enough!
Fact: Modern cybersecurity is about continuous improvement.
Respondents
to CompTIA's survey indicated that one of the most significant challenges to
cybersecurity initiatives today is the belief that "current security is good
enough" (39%).
One
of the reasons businesses may be misled by the state of their security is the
inherent complexity of cybersecurity. In particular, it's incredibly
challenging to track and measure security effectiveness and stay current on
trends. Thus, an incomplete understanding of security leads executives to think
all is well.
Over
40% of executives express complete satisfaction with their organization's cybersecurity, according to CompTIA's report. In contrast, only 25% of IT staff and
21% of business staff are satisfied. This could also be accounted for by
executives often having more tech freedom for added convenience while frontline
staff deal with less visible cybersecurity details.
"Either
way, the gap in satisfaction points to a need for improved communication on the
topic," CompTIA writes.
Get
your IT and business teams together and figure out what risks you face right
now and what needs to change. Because cybersecurity is constantly changing,
your security should never be stagnant. "Good enough" is never good
enough for your business; vigilance and a continuous improvement mindset are
the only ways to approach cybersecurity.
Myth 2: Cybersecurity = Keeping Threats Out
Fact: Cybersecurity protects against threats both inside and outside your organization.
One
of the most publicized breaches of the last decade was when BBC reported that a
Heathrow Airport employee lost a USB stick with sensitive data on it. Although
the stick was recovered with no harm done, it still cost Heathrow £120,000
(US$150,000) in fines.
Yes,
cybersecurity is about protection. However, protection extends to both
external and internal threats such as
employee error.
Because
security threats are diverse and wide-ranging, there are risks that have little
to do with your IT team. For example, how do your employees use social media?
"In an era of social engineering, there must be precise guidelines around the
content being shared since it could eventually lead to a breach," CompTIA
states. Attacks are increasingly focused on human social engineering, like
phishing, and criminals bank on your staff making mistakes.
Additionally,
managing relationships with third-party vendors and partners often involves
some form of data sharing. "The chain of operations is only as strong as its
weakest link," CompTIA points out. "When that chain involves outside parties,
finding the weakest link requires detailed planning."
Everyone
in your organization is responsible for being vigilant and aware of security
best practices and safety as it relates to their jobs. Make sure your cybersecurity strategy puts equal emphasis on internal threats as much as external
ones.
Myth 3: IT Handles My Cybersecurity
Fact: Cybersecurity is not solely the responsibility of the IT department.
While
IT professionals are crucial in implementing security measures, comprehensive
cybersecurity involves a multidisciplinary approach. It encompasses not only
technical aspects but also policy development, employee training, risk
management, and a deep understanding of the organization's unique security
landscape.
Because
each department within your organization involves unique risks, people from
various roles must be included in security conversations. But many companies
are not doing this. CompTIA's report shows that while 40% of respondents say
that technical staff is leading those conversations, only 36% indicate that the
CEO is participating, and just 25% say that business staff is involved.
"More
companies should consider including a wide range of business professionals,
from executives to mid-level management to staff positions, in risk management
discussions," CompTIA writes. "These individuals are becoming more involved in
technology decisions for their departments, and without a proper view into the
associated risks, their decisions may have harmful consequences."
Business
leaders and employees at all levels must actively engage in cybersecurity
efforts, as they are all potential
gatekeepers against evolving threats.
Don't Listen To Myths
By embracing a mindset of continuous improvement,
recognizing the wide range of threats, and understanding the collective
responsibility of cybersecurity, your business will remain safe, resilient, and
thriving, no matter what the future holds.
