Intelligent CISO Issue 68 | Page 29

The paramount lesson learned this year is the shifting of responsibility upstream .
Cybersecurity is becoming not just a technical concern but a crucial aspect of corporate governance .

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editor ’ s question he paramount

T lesson learned this year is the shifting of responsibility upstream , placing greater demands on boards and executives . It ’ s no longer sufficient for organisational leaders to ensure the protection of their digital assets ; they are now expected to possess a comprehensive understanding of the risks faced by their organisations and actively engage in the mitigation of these risks . This paradigm shift is underscored by the fact that executives can now be held criminally accountable for lapses in cybersecurity .

The paramount lesson learned this year is the shifting of responsibility upstream .

This heightened expectation is indicative of a broader trend where cybersecurity is becoming not just a technical concern but a crucial aspect of corporate governance . Executives are now required to play a proactive role in steering their organisations away from potential cyberthreats , acknowledging that their decisions impact not only the digital infrastructure but the overall well-being of the company . The repercussions of inadequate cybersecurity measures are not limited to financial losses and reputational damage ; legal consequences are becoming a stark reality .
Coupled with this challenge is cybersecurity insurance . Securing

Cybersecurity is becoming not just a technical concern but a crucial aspect of corporate governance .

coverage is increasingly difficult , marked by rising costs and more restrictive terms . This trend is likely to continue , creating a scenario where leaders are compelled to take cybersecurity seriously and move beyond mere compliance and ‘ checking the box ’. Organisations must foster a culture where cybersecurity is prioritised in the decision-making process and a part of the overall corporate strategy – from technology to employee training and awareness .
STEPHEN GORHAM , COO , OPSWAT
As cybersecurity challenges persist and responsibilities continue to climb up the corporate ladder , the adaptability and resilience of organisations will define their success in an increasingly digital and connected environment . www . intelligentciso . com
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