Companies rely heavily on technology to make money, and in recent years, security risks have grown exponentially. More and more business owners are bringing in security experts and investing in Information Security Consulting to protect their business assets from criminals. 

The security of your business should not be taken lightly — cyber criminals’ tactics are always evolving and becoming more sophisticated. Hackers know most small businesses don't have many security measures, making it much easier for them to steal data and make money.

Verizon's 2021 Data Breach Investigations Report, showed that 46% of all cyber breaches impact businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees. 

Small and medium-sized business owners often overlook the value of the information they store and believe it is of little interest—security experts will tell you that is not the case.

What are the Goals of Information Security?

1. Protecting your business’s ability to function

Whether it's malfunctioning technology or a cyber attack, being unable to operate because you cannot access sensitive information can be costly. Customers may not be so understanding if their data is compromised.

2. Enabling the safe operation of applications implemented on your business’ IT systems

Nowadays businesses rely on various applications, software, programs, and mobile devices all working together to operate and serve customers. Ensuring all of the moving parts of your business technology are working together in a secure manner is not an easy task but it must be done.

3. Protecting the data your business collects and uses

Customers and employees expect the companies they do business with to protect their personal information from cyber criminals and if they don’t there is a loss of trust and possible loss of business. In addition to customer data, business data must be protected as well. If sensitive employee information, company credit cards, or account passwords are compromised, it could be costly. 

4. Safeguarding the technology your business uses

Whether it’s software, computers, servers, iPads, or cameras, the technology businesses use is expensive and vital to operations. It’s important to protect your tech from cyber criminals and thieves looking to steal physical items.

A Consultation with a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Will Change Everything

A chief security officer (CISO) is an executive responsible for the safety and security of company data and assets. They work to prevent data breaches, phishing attacks, and malware, by developing safety protocols and indecent response plans.

A CISO, or often a Chief Security Officer (CSO), may also be responsible for physical security—preventing trespassers and protecting physical assets, the title and scope of work largely depends on the individual company and their needs.

Nowadays, an organization's future depends on securing its data from cyber criminals. Creating and maintaining a tailored and comprehensive security strategy is essential to protecting your business into the future.

What Actions Should Businesses Take to Protect Their Data?

An Information Security Consultant or Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) works with businesses to complete the following tasks to protect data and company assets:

  • Conducting a Risk Assessment Audit to give an overview of your business systems and the potential vulnerabilities that need addressing
  • Analyzing IT activities monthly with an IT Performance Analysis & Backup Review
  • Conducting a User Privilege Review with a quarterly audit of your environment to identify over-privileged accounts
  • Assessing external and internal physical security at your main location and alternate sites. The external evaluation will include grounds, lighting, and physical access to identify breach points.
  • Conducting Vendor Assessments to evaluate your vendor’s infrastructure and security posture to help you identify risks.
  • Developing a customized Incident Response Plan that guides you through potential crises and gives you a roadmap toward quick and efficient recovery if disaster strikes.
  • Consulting with a security professional to help your business make security decisions, understand security threats, and optimize security processes.
  • Conducting regular penetration and compliance scans to evaluate your environment and identify new vulnerabilities that may have been introduced.

It takes a trained security expert to properly implement these procedures and ensure they are carried out effectively. Information Security Consultants are knowledgeable about the latest industry trends and threats, as well as best practices for protecting your critical data.

Information Security is a specialized field that is constantly evolving as technology changes and cyber criminals develop more sophisticated attack methods.

Chief Information Security Officers identify security vulnerabilities, create a plan for strengthened security procedures, present findings to company leadership, and educate staff to recognize security red flags and monitor the latest threats in the security industry.

It is uncommon for small and medium-sized businesses to have a Chief Information Security Officer on staff—that is a luxury often reserved for large enterprise corporations.

However, smaller companies can hire a vCISO (Virtual Chief Information Security Officer) who usually works for a cybersecurity company, consulting multiple companies on how to improve their security. Purchasing a block of a vCISO's time to get their expert recommendations and assessments can have immeasurable benefits for your business.

Include a vCISO on Your Journey to Better Security

Maintaining regular communication with your vCISO about your progress and the effectiveness of your security strategy is essential to staying ahead of security threats.

With a strategic partnership with an experienced vCISO, you can protect your assets and the future of your business.

To learn more about Information Security Consulting or to set a time to talk with a One Step Secure IT vCISO — Contact Us Here.

 

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