As technology advances and cyber threats become more prevalent, organizations must prioritize cybersecurity initiatives. However, gaining support from executives can be a challenging task—so we’ve gathered steps you can take to effectively win executive support for your cybersecurity strategy.
A Decade of Evolving Cyberthreats
Over the past 10 years, the landscape of cyber threats has evolved dramatically to reflect changes in technology. While cyber adversaries initially focused on widespread, generic attacks like viruses and phishing scams, they’ve shifted towards more sophisticated and targeted strategies—data breaches, social engineering attacks, and state-sponsored cyber warfare, to name a few.
Ransomware has burgeoned into a major threat, crippling organizations by encrypting critical data and demanding hefty ransoms. Just last year, entertainment giant Sony suffered a huge ransomware attack that jeopardized the information of 6,800 employees and their families. With the increasing reliance on internet-connected devices, the risk of cyberattacks is only expected to grow.
What’s the Role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)?
As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations must have a strong leader to guide cybersecurity strategies—an executive role known as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). The CISO is responsible for designing and implementing an extremely detailed risk management program that aligns perfectly with an organization’s risk appetite.
However, their success greatly depends on the support and involvement of other executives.
Common Challenges Faced by CISOs
A CISO’s job is difficult. They must communicate technical concepts to non-technical executives while handling the following:
- Increased Frequency of Cyberattacks: With ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) and other tools becoming more accessible, cyberattacks are happening more frequently and with greater impact.
- Anticipated Challenges in the Coming Decade: As technology evolves and threats like AI-driven attacks become more prevalent, CISOs must stay ahead of the curve and anticipate future challenges.
- Balancing Security and Business Objectives: CISOs must balance implementing strong cybersecurity strategies and enabling business operations to run smoothly.
Gaining Executive Support Isn’t Easy, But It’s Possible
CISOs also struggle to gain support from other executives—many view cybersecurity for executives as an IT issue rather than a business one. This mindset can make it difficult for CISOs to secure necessary resources and funding.
To break through this barrier, CISOs must be able to effectively communicate the importance of cybersecurity strategies and how they align with overall business objectives.
7 Strategies to Secure Executive Buy-In
Here are some strategies CISOs can use to gain the support of executives and ensure the success of cybersecurity initiatives:
1. Create a Proactive Communication Strategy
Maintain open lines of communication with executives and provide regular updates on cybersecurity strategies and risks. Keep them informed and engaged in the process.
2. Make Cybersecurity Understandable for Non-Technical Executives
Translate technical jargon into easily understandable language for non-technical executives. Explain the potential business impact of cyber threats and the steps being taken to mitigate them.
3. Use Real-World Incidents as Teaching Tools
Share news stories about recent cyberattacks and use them to illustrate the potential consequences of a breach.
4. Translate Complex Risk into Tangible Terms
Explain risk in terms of financial impact and potential damage to the company. This can help others understand the tangible repercussions of not prioritizing cybersecurity.
5. Link Risk to Financial and Reputational Consequences
By linking cybersecurity risks to financial and reputational consequences, you can demonstrate the importance of investing in a cybersecurity strategy.
6. Cultivate a Culture Where Security is Everyone’s Responsibility
Emphasize the importance of a company-wide security culture and encourage executives to lead by example in following security protocols.
7. Showcase Successes and Progress
Highlight the successes and progress made in cybersecurity efforts to showcase the value and impact of these initiatives.
Count on RedNight Consulting For Superior Network Security
At RedNight Consulting, we understand the importance of cybersecurity strategy and are dedicated to providing top-of-the-line network security solutions for businesses of all sizes. Contact us today to learn about how we can help protect your organization from evolving cyber threats.