Cybersecurity threats continue to plague organizations, with a significant year-on-year increase in victims in 2024 – 77% year-on-year. The most frequently targeted industries include manufacturing, healthcare, and professional services. While these attacks are sophisticated, the best ways to secure an organization against them are often less complex and more comprehensive than one might expect.
AI: A Double-Edged Sword
AI is a powerful tool, but it should not be used as a shortcut to robust security protocols. The technology is still in its nascent stages, and its economics are yet to be worked out. Many organizations struggle to integrate AI into their technology infrastructure. AI applications can also be used as an attack vector, particularly when employees fail to adhere to company policies. This is not to say that AI has no value in security. Far from it. However, businesses must approach AI with caution and establish a strong security posture to build upon. This includes defining which systems AI applications are connected to and educating employees on appropriate use cases for AI. In the near term, relying on more classical threat intelligence and pentesting processes will prove the most effective strategies for mitigating risk. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the threat landscape and enables organizations to respond more effectively to emerging threats.
Security Starts with Culture
The weakest link in the security chain has always been people. Our latest Security Navigator report confirms this point – 37% of cyber incidents originate internally. Cybersecurity threats can come from anywhere, and no amount of technology can protect a business if its staff are not trained to recognize and respond to these threats. Mitigating risks requires integrating security awareness into employees’ daily routines. This can be achieved through continuous training from CSOs, CIOs, and external experts. Security awareness must be communicated across the organization to win over naysayers and secure employee buy-in in every function.
Defining Cybersecurity Success
Cybersecurity teams must have realistic goals and targets for cybersecurity success. A zero-percentage incident rate is ideal, but it is not realistic in a landscape of increasingly sophisticated threats. Instead, consider more achievable targets, such as reducing incidents and tracking the time between detection, reporting, and remediation. Systems being brought down can have significant consequences for business processes, so it’s essential to consider how quickly a compromised system can be brought back online through backups. Sensitive data, such as financial information or intellectual property, requires particular attention to security strategy to reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Increasing resilience is a marathon, not a sprint, and no system is impenetrable. Set realistic milestones and goals based on data sensitivity and business responsibility, and build on that posture over weeks, months, and years.
People, Process, and Technology Alignment
The idea that one technology or suite of technologies can provide robust cybersecurity is a fanciful and risky position to hold. If internal standards around education and processes slip due to an over-reliance on technology, severe system compromises are inevitable. Cybersecurity must not be a static barrier. It must change to meet new threats by aligning well-informed people with strong processes supported by technology. This requires a holistic approach that considers the interplay between people, processes, and technology. In conclusion, cybersecurity in 2024 requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond relying on technology alone. By focusing on culture, education, and realistic goals, organizations can build a robust security posture that protects against the most sophisticated threats.
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| AI should not be used as a shortcut to robust security protocols |
| Security starts with culture and education |
| Realistic goals and targets are essential for cybersecurity success |
| People, process, and technology alignment is crucial for effective cybersecurity |
What’s Next for Cybersecurity?
As the threat landscape continues to evolve, security teams must remain vigilant and adaptable. The best way to protect your business is to take a proactive approach to cybersecurity. This includes:
- Integrating security awareness into employees’ daily routines
- Establishing a strong security posture to build upon
- Communicating security strategy across the organization
- Setting realistic milestones and goals
- Aligning well-informed people with strong processes supported by technology
By taking these steps, organizations can build a robust security posture that protects against the most sophisticated threats and ensures the security of their most valuable assets.
“The best defense against cyber threats is a strong security posture, built on a foundation of culture, education, and realistic goals. By taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity, organizations can protect their most valuable assets and stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape.”
Getting Started
If you’re looking to improve your cybersecurity posture, here are some steps to get started:
- Assess your current security posture
- Identify areas for improvement
- Develop a security strategy
- Communicate your security strategy across the organization
- Provide ongoing training and education
By taking these steps, you can build a robust security posture that protects against the most sophisticated threats and ensures the security of your most valuable assets.
