Geek Online Security

Security is among the most rapidly-changing and complex areas of information technology , and is a major concern for businesses in all sectors. The threats to the security of data are increasing and organizations continue to struggle with the changing security landscape and rules. Security incidents as well as data breaches are becoming common to business in the present. The business world is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) who is accountable for security. It is also essential for an executive to be responsible for making security decisions and informing the management team about security risks. It is surprising that very few organizations have an devoted CISO who is accountable for security in the company. These are some of the most frequent questions I’ve been asked as a security consultant working with numerous organizations to discuss the value and importance of the role of a CISO.

What’s the job of what is the role of a CISO?

The CISO offers direction to the executives about how to make sure that the company is meeting security requirements to conduct business within their industry. The office of the CISO is a member of a team that together has as a view of the risks facing the enterprise and puts in place the necessary security technologies and procedures to reduce dangers to the business. She has the authority to communicate any risks to decision-makers and make independent decisions if needed. She advocates for investments and resources to ensure security practices are given the proper attention.

With each security vulnerability, security attack, and breach that occurs the importance of this job is increasing. Over the last couple of years, security threats have become increasingly aggressive and can vary from hackers to criminal enterprises.

What are the essential attributes a CISO needs?

Executive Presence: The CISO must be able to explain the company’s security posture and influence executives. They must be able identify and assess risks, and then translate the threats into a language that executives be able to comprehend.

Business knowledge Business knowledge: The CISO must be able comprehend operational processes of the business and also protect crucial information. She should look at business operations from a security standpoint and security point of view. She should also establish controls to reduce disruptions to business operations and the risks.

Security knowledge: The CISO must be able to comprehend complicated security configurations from an technical perspective and translate the details into language that can be understood by executives.

What do you think are the main responsibilities of the CISO?

A CISO will be responsible for the following objectives, but the specific responsibilities will depend on the size and level of maturity of the organization.

Reporting and Executive Management Communication: Developing reports in conjunction with presenting and advising the executive management on all security matters.

Risk Assessment: To determine the vulnerability of each asset within an organization, conduct risk assessments.

Strategic Security Roadmap: Develop an outline and budget that includes the right size, sequence and prioritized initiatives.

Program for Risk Management: Assess and advise on security threats and maintain an inventory of risks and corrective actions.

Audits & Compliance with Regulatory Compliance Document the high-level requirements for compliance to ensure that your goals are being met in an environment that is secure and controlled.

Vendor Management Control and oversee the management of vendors and lead the due diligence process.

Policy and Procedure Management: The development and implementation of security-related policies and procedures.

Asset Assessment Classify assets according to their importance and value to business.

Security Architecture: Review security architecture for new applications and projects.

Awareness & Training: Maintain/update training and awareness plan and materials.

Management of Incidents: Coordinate, communicate and coordinate a response to security events/incidents.

Do all businesses have to have a CISO

In a perfect world, every company would have an CISO. The job of CISO has become critical to the operation of an company, regardless of the industry or size. Small or medium-sized businesses may not have the resources to afford an entire chief information security officer. In these cases it may be beneficial for the CIO to assume the duties of a CISO and leverage external consultants to provide targeted advice and assistance.

What are the common pitfalls when the hiring of a CISO?

Many companies are using internal IT personnel who are focused on operational issues. They do not have the expertise to conduct a risk analysis and make recommendations to solve difficult business issues. The CISO should be able to comprehend the risk of business as well as the IT risk.

A successful cybersecurity program is only possible by a comprehensive approach implemented. This method should take into consideration the process, people, and technology of information security, while implementing the business-based, risk-balanced approach. Information security programs can be just as effective as their success is dependent on people and processes just as technology.