There Are Many Organizations That Still Don’t Understand Cybersecurity

A shocking number of companies have not dedicated the time and resources necessary to manage cybersecurity concerns. If you are an IT security professional, this can be particularly frustrating, especially if you are tasked with keeping systems safe.

Luckily, there are things you can do to inform your employer of the importance of cybersecurity, ensuring they take the proper steps to safeguard systems and data. Here is how to get started.

Focus on Mentality

Many company leaders who are not from the IT space believe that cybersecurity can be treated as a finite issue. For example, they may think they are doing enough if there has not been a recent breach. Similarly, if the company complies with a security framework – like NIST or FISMA – that security is sufficient.

However, cybersecurity professionals understand the process is ongoing and needs to be ever-evolving. The solutions of today might not hold tomorrow, and meeting the minimums of a security framework might not keep attackers at bay.

Correcting someone’s mentality can be daunting, but it is not impossible. At times, using data can be a great approach. Consider gathering details about industry-specific breaches at other companies that showcase how even robust and compliant systems do not guarantee success if they do not leverage the latest technologies. Run penetration tests to identify vulnerabilities in the company’s systems.

Often, you have to “show” leaders there is an issue, not just “tell” them. While it may be a bit of an uphill climb, it is one you need to take on if you want to keep your organization secure.

Be Ready With Solutions

Finding a problem is not enough if you want to make sure your company takes cybersecurity seriously; you also need to bring solutions to the table. Otherwise, the information you deliver is not particularly actionable.

While you may be limited to simple research, locating products or services that can enhance security is a good start. Consider any existing weaknesses, then identify options for correcting them, whether it be a complete overhaul of your current solutions or supplemental software or hardware that can alleviate the concern.

When you can present viable options, getting management to sign off may be easier. It makes the situation less ambiguous since it is not focused solely on shortcomings but potential avenues for improvement.

Ultimately, getting your organization to take cybersecurity seriously may be challenging, especially if leaders have been somewhat neglectful over time. However, change will not happen until someone steps in as an advocate for enhanced solutions, and that may need to be you.

If you would like additional information that can help you ensure your company understands the importance of cybersecurity, the professionals at The Squires Group can help. Contact us to speak with a member of our knowledgable and experienced team today and see how our IT security expertise can make these critical conversations easier to navigate.


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