As cyber threats continue to evolve, it becomes essential for companies to establish effective standards to protect their data and ensure the security of their operations. Recently, we relaunched our podcast, Cyber Ops Unmasked, where we cover all things cybersecurity. Cybersecurity initiatives are often misunderstood, mismanaged, or purposely hidden in companies to avoid scrutiny. In this podcast, we’ll have an open discussion so that cybersecurity operations are understood, managed effectively, and open to questioning and scrutiny.
In this article, we take a deep dive into the conversation surrounding cybersecurity standards and frameworks to understand why cybersecurity standards are crucial and how businesses can implement them effectively.
Why Do You Need Cybersecurity Standards?
Without well-defined policies and procedures, companies may find it challenging to comply with regulatory requirements or follow industry best practices. Various frameworks, such as the NIST 800 standards, HIPAA, and PCI DSS, provide guidance tailored to specific industries. Adhering to these standards ensures that businesses mitigate risks and provide a secure environment for their stakeholders, employees, and customers.
How Do You Choose the Right Standards?
How can businesses select the appropriate cybersecurity standards when there are so many options available? Business leaders don’t need to implement all standards, but they should choose those that align with their industry and compliance needs. For instance, the PCI DSS framework is relevant to retail businesses dealing with customer credit card information, while the ISO 27001 standard is suitable for information security companies. Evaluating specific requirements and industry relevance helps businesses determine which standards to adopt.
Proactively Assess Your Policies and Procedures
Most of the time, business leaders don’t realize they need cybersecurity standards until something happens. Companies must proactively assess their policies and procedures to identify compliance needs and potential risks. Conducting a gap analysis or risk assessment assists in understanding the areas that require improvement and enables organizations to take necessary action.
Implementing and Maintaining Standards
How can you implement and maintain proper standards in your business? You should review existing policies and procedures in your company to identify alignment with cybersecurity standards. Creating a standards committee helps ensure that organizations remain current with evolving standards and compliance requirements. The committee can oversee ongoing evaluation, make necessary updates, and facilitate internal audits. While companies can conduct self-audits or readiness assessments, engaging external firms to perform comprehensive audits provides an unbiased evaluation of adherence to standards.
The Purpose of Cybersecurity Standards
The primary purpose of cybersecurity standards is to prepare businesses for potential cyberattacks and mitigate risks. While adhering to standards cannot guarantee complete security, it significantly reduces exposure and prepares organizations to respond effectively. By implementing proper standards, companies gain a deeper understanding of their data, identify anomalies promptly, and establish a structured response plan. Compliance frameworks ensure that businesses are well-prepared and can take necessary steps in the event of an attack.
InfoSystems Can Help You Mitigate Potential Cybersecurity Risks
Cybersecurity standards are no longer optional for businesses, no matter what size the organization is. Establishing and maintaining proper standards is essential to protect sensitive data, mitigate risks, and respond effectively to cyber threats. By adopting industry-specific frameworks and complying with regulations, companies can demonstrate their commitment to data security and safeguard the interests of their stakeholders, customers, and employees.
InfoSystems Cyber can help secure the future of your business and help you feel educated, confident, and peaceful about your ability to meet compliance regulations and requirements.
