The Top CISO Stories From Around the Web: September
For this month’s CISO Stories, we share articles exploring the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and risk management, the expanding role of CISOs, the importance of proactive measures against cyber threats, and more. The news cycle always seems a bit overwhelming to keep up with so we picked out some of the most pertinent stories for CISOs.
Hear are the top stories from September:
1. Need a security road map? Ditch the ad hoc measurement
Source: CIO
To build a strong security roadmap, CISOs must have a clear understanding of their current program's performance and maturity. This requires a methodical approach to measurement, rather than relying solely on ad hoc inputs.
By defining the security program, understanding risk appetite, and using various measurement methods, CISOs can identify gaps and prioritize activities that have the greatest impact on risk reduction. This will help them develop a roadmap that effectively strengthens their organization's security posture.
2. Google Cloud’s Kevin Mandia on the evolving role of the CISO in cybersecurity risk management
Source: SiliconANGLE
As cyber threats become more complex, the role of the CISO is expanding beyond traditional information security to include supply chain and data integrity. This shift requires organizations to rethink their security strategies and prioritize resilience.
Google Cloud's Kevin Mandia emphasizes the importance of proactive measures, such as regular tabletop exercises, to prepare for cyber incidents. He also highlights the need for CISOs to advocate for their place at the leadership table as their responsibilities continue to grow.
3. The CISO’s Roadmap to Purposeful Vulnerability Management
Source: Information Week
The biggest cybersecurity challenge for many organizations isn't identifying vulnerabilities but addressing them. To effectively manage vulnerabilities, organizations must adopt a proactive approach that includes:
Identifying threats: Conduct regular assessments to detect security risks.
Risk assessment and prioritization: Evaluate the potential impact of vulnerabilities and prioritize them accordingly.
Remediation and response: Close security gaps promptly and test systems thoroughly.
Continuous improvement: Regularly review and update vulnerability management processes.
By following these steps, organizations can reduce their risk of data breaches and protect their most valuable assets.
4. How to ensure cybersecurity strategies align with the company’s risk tolerance
Source: CSO
Aligning cybersecurity strategies with an organization's risk tolerance is crucial for CISOs. This requires understanding the company's appetite for risk, quantifying cyber risk, and developing mature risk reporting practices.
Key points:
Board involvement: CISOs need clear guidance from the board on risk tolerance.
Risk tolerance vs. risk appetite: Differentiate between these concepts and quantify risk tolerance.
Quantifying cyber risk: Use industry data and risk assessments to understand the probability and impact of cyber incidents.
Risk committees: Establish cross-functional committees to discuss risk and ensure alignment.
Maturity assessments: Assess the organization's maturity level and define desired controls.
Business acumen: CISOs need to understand business objectives and communicate risks in a business context.
By following these steps, CISOs can effectively align cybersecurity strategies with the company's risk tolerance and protect the organization from potential threats.
5. Cyber insurance set for explosive growth
Source: Help Net Security
Cyber insurance is poised for significant growth in the coming decade, but structural changes are necessary to support sustainable growth. The US standalone cyber insurance market could reach $45 billion by 2034, a fivefold increase from today.
Insurers need to offer broader coverage, clearer terms, and larger limits to attract more customers. The market will also need to increase capital and expand reinsurance participation. Cyber insurance can help build resilience against cyber threats, similar to other peak perils. The US government recognizes cyber risk as a major threat and is taking steps to address it.
Overall, the growth of cyber insurance is driven by increasing digitization and concerns about cyber risk. However, the industry must adapt to meet the evolving needs of customers and ensure sustainable growth.
CISOs can improve their preparations for the evolving cybersecurity landscape and implement effective strategies to protect their organizations by staying informed about these critical developments. Stay tuned for October!
