The Top Stories from Around the Web: January 2025
With the post-holiday blues and so much attention being divided by the global news, we wanted to highlight some CISO stories that you might have missed. In January there was a lot written about CISOs and their relationship with other C-level executives as well as some other notable articles we think you will find interesting.
Here are the top CISO stories for January 2025:
1. How CISOs can forge the best relationships for cybersecurity investment
Source: CSO Online
CISOs must build strong relationships across their organizations to secure cybersecurity investments amid budget constraints. While budgets have grown slightly, securing sufficient funding depends on a CISO’s influence, reputation, and ability to align security goals with business objectives. Key strategies include collaborating with finance, legal, IT, and engineering, demonstrating cost efficiencies, and framing security as a business enabler. The CISO’s reporting structure affects their ability to advocate for funds, and visibility beyond IT is crucial. Financial literacy is now essential, helping CISOs quantify cyber risks and justify budgets effectively. Engaging stakeholders early, aligning security initiatives with business priorities, and leveraging risk quantification tools can strengthen budget negotiations. Ultimately, CISOs must communicate cybersecurity’s value in business terms to gain leadership buy-in and sustain critical security investments.
2. Cybersecurity deserves a place in the political spotlight
Source: SCMedia
Cybersecurity remains a critical yet politically overlooked issue, despite its importance to national security and economic stability. Its complexity, particularly in the U.S., where states enforce varying regulations, makes compliance challenging. A stronger federal approach could enhance cybersecurity protections, especially against threats like election interference and misinformation. Businesses must take a proactive stance, prioritizing cyber resilience through strategic planning, risk assessments, and employee training. Leaders should also adapt business models to emerging technologies, monitor policy shifts, and strengthen supply chains. Collaboration between government and the private sector is essential to securing technological advancements. Ensuring cybersecurity expertise within government and fostering industry partnerships can help bridge political divides and create a unified approach to cyber protection.
3. Why CISOs Need Full Board Support to Tackle Today’s Cyber Threats
Source: The Cyber Express
Cyber risk is no longer just an IT issue—it’s a strategic enterprise risk requiring full board oversight. The NACD Director’s Handbook on Cyber-Risk Oversight, developed with CISA, emphasizes integrating cybersecurity into corporate governance. Boards must empower CISOs with resources, educate leadership on cyber threats, and ensure cybersecurity is a core business priority. Establishing a cyber-risk management framework, lowering reporting thresholds, and fostering industry collaboration are key steps. Sustainable cybersecurity requires leadership commitment, treating cyber literacy like financial literacy. By prioritizing cybersecurity, boards can protect their organizations, stakeholders, and national security in an increasingly interconnected world.
4. The CFO may be the CISO’s most important business ally
Source: CSO Online
A strong CISO-CFO alliance is crucial for balancing cybersecurity risk and business innovation. Despite natural tensions—mainly over budgets, business operations, and project delays—CISOs can reset this dynamic through reverse mentoring, commercial awareness, and aligning cybersecurity strategies with financial priorities. By speaking the CFO’s language and demonstrating the business value of cybersecurity, CISOs can foster collaboration. The rise of AI presents a unique opportunity for partnership, as CFOs seek productivity gains while CISOs mitigate risks. A proactive approach can transform potential friction into a strategic advantage, ensuring secure and sustainable business growth.
5. How CISOs Can Build a Disaster Recovery Skillset
Source: Information Week
CISOs must develop disaster recovery skills to navigate inevitable cyber incidents. Effective recovery requires both technical expertise—understanding attack methods and system impacts—and human skills like communication and crisis leadership. CISOs should engage in tabletop exercises, learn from industry peers, and analyze past breaches to improve preparedness. During incidents, they must balance security measures with business resilience while maintaining team morale. Personal career risks, such as liability concerns and job security, also warrant consideration. Ultimately, strong disaster recovery hinges on leading with decisiveness, ensuring adequate investment, and prioritizing both technology and people in crisis response.
